Elly Ameling on Frank Martin in conversation with Rien de Reede

Martin’s large-scale Christmas oratorio ‘Le Mystère de la Nativité’ was premiered in Geneva in 1959. The then 26-year-old Dutch soprano Elly Ameling - winner of the ‘Concours International de Musique’ in Geneva (1958) - sang the roles of Eve and the Virgin Mary. We have looked up this world famous singer to reminisce on this exceptional concert and her collaboration with Frank Martin.
music (fragments)
• Le Mystère de la Nativité (world première; Geneva, 23-12-1959)
• from Drey Minnelieder, performed by Elly Ameling, soprano and Frank Martin, piano
- no.3 Unter der linden… (Walther von der Vogelweide)
- no.1 Ach herzeliep… (Anonymous 13th century)

[@okodee01]

Your voice is just gorgeous and I always look for you when I’m learning new songs. Such a wonderful instrument you have. ❤

[@josephcollins6033]

Mme Ameling is the very finest of singers-ever- and the finest of teachers. I learned much from her in Baden, having treasured her singing for years. Thank you for coming into my life. You changed my singing.

[@kleinekuenstlerin7717]

Meine absolute Lieblings-CD „Mozart-Lieder und Notturni“. Für mich steht fest: Mozart-Lieder NUR mit Elly Ameling! 👍🏻 Einfach himmlisch! 😇🎼 Ich höre die Musik unter anderem im Auto hoch und runter. Damals nahm ich Unterricht im klassischen Gesang und habe von Ihnen erfahren.

[@jamesmorrow1646]

You’re a beautiful person Elly. Thanks so much.

[@soavemusica]

What a great, insightful artist with the most preciously lyrical instrument. God bless her. It is written: Psalm 92: 1 "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: 2 To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, 3 Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound."

[@MrInterestingthings]

So wonderful she is offering her craft, learning and wisdom with all of us . I wasn't aware Ameling had recorded any 20th century music . So wonderful to hear her in Frank Martin whose piano pieces and chamber music I've loved for years ! Wonderful to be introduced to this music !

[@Canuckoperafan]

Listening to your voice in this oratorio brings me to tears - tears of joy! I have great memories of your recitals in Toronto 👋👋👋

[@edwardbak4459]

What a tremendous inspiration, a living legend, a treasure to humanity. God bless!

[@gregoryaz8406]

We so enjoyed watching this entertaining look back at your experiences with Mr. Martin as composer and pianist. My wife, Linda Skroski, still delights in talking about working with you in your home during her Fulbright studies in the early '80s. A wonderful time in her life! God bless you!

[@frgraybean]

What a treat! God bless you!

[@sirdicaudore]

I love her sooooo much!!!!!!! 💜