Georges Thill (1897-1984)

Ah! fuyez douce image
Manon Jules Massenet

Georges Thill has been referred to as the most distinguished heroic French tenor of his time. He made his debut at the Paris Opéra in 1924. He sang there and at Opéra-Comique. He first appeared at Covent Garden in 1928 and at the Metropolitan Opera in 1931. I think his voice is splendid; solid, strong, compelling and totally lacking the cornball style that too many tenors of that era seemed to favor. There are quite a few recordings of him available, re-released on CD. You can find some at H&B Direct. Like many of the re-issues of old 78 rpm recordings, the Thill offerings on CD are “tricked up” — allegedly enhanced by the addition of “presence”. This added echo effect kills the immediacy and true presence that is characteristic of old recordings.

This Columbia recording was made in France. The orchestra is conducted by Eugène Bigot.