Try free for 30 days

1 credit a month to use on any title, yours to keep (you’ll use your first credit on this title).
Stream or download thousands of included titles.
Access to exclusive deals and discounts.
$16.45 a month after 30 day trial. Cancel anytime.
Werther cover art

Werther

By: Thomson Smillie
Narrated by: David Timson
Try for $0.00

$16.45 per month after 30 days. Cancel anytime.

Buy Now for $8.76

Buy Now for $8.76

Pay using voucher balance (if applicable) then card ending in
By confirming your purchase, you agree to Audible's Conditions Of Use and Privacy Notice and authorise Audible to charge your designated credit card or another available credit card on file.

Editorial reviews

As part of the Opera Explained series, experienced radio broadcaster and voice talent David Timson delivers a Thomson Smillie lecture on the 19th-century opera Werther. Jules Massenet was one of the most successful composers of 19th-century France and Werther one of his most celebrated works.

With lush audio clips from relevant operas this lecture guides you through the history of the French opera from the 17th century up through Werther’s time and the Grand Operas of the Palais Garnier in Paris. The tragic love plot of Werther, based on the novel by Goethe, is explained and dissected alongside Massanet’s compositional techniques. Timson’s engaging performance along with the sumptuous sound clips provide a palpable history lesson and aural treat for any lover of great opera.

Publisher's Summary

Massenet’s Werther combines a deeply tender story with music of beauty and eloquence. One act alone contains two of the greatest arias in the repertoire: the mezzo-soprano aria "Va! Laisse couler mes larmes" and the tenor’s "Pourquoi me rèveiller". In their sentimental power and melodic richness these arias encapsulate the qualities that account for the universal popularity of this great work.

©2005 Naxos AudioBooks (P)2005 Naxos AudioBooks

What listeners say about Werther

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.