Holiday greetings to all who keep Christmas. I will celebrate as my people have since days of yore: with Chinese food and a movie. And bûche de Noël, of course. (Good Yule to pagan folk, too.)
Anyway, since online activity is slowing down, I shall risk the wrath of the bandwidth gods and offer two Christmas-related selections, one sacred and one profane, for your listening pleasure. Traffic permitting, they will remain available through the end of 25 December. Update: MP3s no longer available. Be sure to visit vilaine fille early and often!
The first is Schubert's "Ave Maria" as set down by Dorothy Maynor in 1940. There are many great performances of this song, but Maynor's silvery tone, sovereign musicianship, and quiet devotion make this version especially dear to my heart.
The second is Musetta's waltz from Puccini's La bohème, sung by Conchita Supervia and excerpted from the soundtrack of the 1934 film "Evensong." (Acts I and II of Bohème take place on Christmas Eve, "la vigilia di Natal.") There's chatter at the beginning of the recording and a traditional Spanish song, "Los ojos negros, negritos," at the end. (Why not?) Like her Cherubino, Supervia's Musetta does not conform to canonical standards of vocal beauty, but her every syllable exudes wilfulness, sex, and *trouble.* Poor Marcello doesn't stand a chance… though it sounds like he's in for some warm and frisky Christmas fun, wouldn't you agree?
To all visitors to vilaine fille, my best wishes for holiday joy, both wicked and holy!
I, too, adore Elly Ameling and her way with Schubert. Thanks for your comment!
Posted by: vilaine fille | 22 December 2004 at 16:44
Maynor's Schubert is all you say it is, but my heart still belongs to Elly Ameling.
Posted by: alan | 21 December 2004 at 21:15