Album insights
French star tenor Benjamin Bernheim, after his stunning performance at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, launches his debut solo album "Douce France: Mélodies & Chansons." Drawing from his extensive study of French songs, he effortlessly transitions between renowned 19th-century melodies by Berlioz, Chausson, and Duparc and classic 20th-century chansons by Brel, Kosma, and Trenet. While these cycles are often associated today with female vocals and orchestral accompaniment, Bernheim was determined to return to the deep intimacy provided by a piano accompaniment. To achieve this, the orchestral scores were transcribed into piano versions for the album by his musical partner and pianist, Carri-Ann Matheson.