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REYNALDO HAHN, lyrical singing recital
An iconic composer of the artistic Paris of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Reynaldo Hahn left behind a body of work where musical elegance serves the text. The students of the singing class propose a journey through his melodies and operetta excerpts, revealing all the richness and sensitivity of his universe.
Hôtel Wendel (Paris 9th)
Part of the Nadia and Lili Boulanger Conservatory Events programme
About
Through this two-part cycle, we will set out to discover an instrument with many facets, from its origins to its most contemporary developments.
In the prestigious setting of the Hôtel de Wendel, the singing class of Suren Shakhjijanyan presents a recital dedicated to Reynaldo Hahn, an iconic figure of the Parisian artistic life of the Belle Époque.
Born in Caracas in 1874 and arriving in Paris in his childhood, Hahn studied at the Conservatory under Jules Massenet. A composer, singer, conductor, and music critic, he became one of the most unique personalities of the artistic Paris of his time. His work, deeply linked to poetry and literature, unfolds in the melody, opera, operetta, and musical theater.
Close to many writers and artists of his era, Reynaldo Hahn maintained a particularly intimate relationship with poetry. His music favors the clarity of the vocal line, the finesse of the text, and an expressiveness full of nuances, revealing a sensibility that still makes his melodies unique today.
Melodies, vocal ensembles, and operetta excerpts will make up a multifaceted program, bringing voice, poetry, and theater into dialogue. The students will thus be invited to explore different colors of Hahn's universe, between French elegance, lyricism, and stage spirit.
Our take on this event
Transport yourself to the height of the Belle Époque with an intimate performance celebrating the exquisite melodies of Reynaldo Hahn. This is a rare chance to hear his brilliant fusion of literature and song, brought to life by passionate vocalists in a truly stunning setting.
On Saturday, December 12, 2026, the Hôtel Wendel hosts a classical vocal recital dedicated to the composer Reynaldo Hahn. From 15:00 to 16:30, students from Suren Shakhjijanyan’s vocal class perform a diverse selection of melodies, vocal ensembles, and musical theater pieces by this iconic figure of the Parisian Belle Époque. Balancing lyricism with artistic refinement, the program explores the intimate connection between music and poetry championed by the Venezuelan-born composer. This event is free to attend, offering a unique opportunity to experience the nuanced expressiveness of Hahn’s work within the historic and elegant setting of the 9th arrondissement.
Join us at the Hôtel Wendel in the 9th arrondissement on Saturday, December 12, 2026, for an afternoon dedicated to the works of Reynaldo Hahn. A central figure of Parisian cultural life during the Belle Époque, Hahn was a multifaceted talent—composer, conductor, and critic—who studied at the Conservatoire under Jules Massenet. His compositions, celebrated for their focus on vocal clarity and poetic depth, remain a testament to his unique artistic vision.
The recital runs from 15:00 to 16:30 and features performances by the students of Suren Shakhjijanyan. The program is designed to showcase the breadth of Hahn’s creativity, weaving together solo melodies, vocal ensembles, and selections from his operettas. Attendees will discover the interplay between music, poetry, and stagecraft, highlighting the composer’s signature blend of French elegance and lyrical sensitivity. Admission to this recital is free for all visitors.
