Avant de quitter ces lieux – Faust – Gounod

OperaPulse’s Aria of the Week – Gounod’s Faust is not unlike the other staples of the operatic repertoire – it has a number of great arias. Avant de quitter ces lieux (Before I leave this place), sung by Valentin (baritone), is an aria of great poise and nobility. With a memorable melody, lushes high notes, and demanding musical phrases,  Avant de quitter ces lieux is someone of a rite of passage for most baritones.

Valentin, Marguerite’s brother, is being called off to war. Being the devoted brother that he is, Valentin worries that no one will protect his sister while he is gone to war or even death. Even though Marguerite has given him a holy medallion to ward off death, he still asks God to protect his sister.

Arranged alphabetically by first name.

Dmitri Hvorostovsky

Piero Cappuccilli

Robert Merrill

Russell Braun

Simon Keenlyside

Thomas Allen

Thomas Hampson

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