chansonnier

American  

[shahn-suhn-yey, shahn-saw-nyey] / ˌʃɑn sənˈyeɪ, ʃɑ̃ sɔˈnyeɪ /

noun

plural

chansonniers

1. a singer or writer of chansons, especially a cabaret performer who specializes in songs that are a combination of melody and rapid spoken patter.

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Etymology

Origin of chansonnier

From French, dating back to 1885–90; see origin at chanson, -ier ²

Example Sentences

He left as a gruff Yorkshire lad and came back a smooth, silver-tongued chansonnier.

From The Guardian • Nov. 5, 2016

In a mirthful score for chansonnier and an ensemble replete with toy instruments, Gruber takes delight in small, nasty grotesqueries.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2015

He has recorded both versions: as chansonnier with the Camerata Academica Salzburg, led by Franz Welser-Möst for EMI, and as both singer and conductor with the BBC Philharmonic for Chandos.

From New York Times • Dec. 4, 2011

Mr. Gruber will perform with the Philharmonic as the chansonnier, a narrative role that involves singing in cabaret, lieder and exaggerated operatic styles as well as speaking, whispering and shrieking.

From New York Times • Dec. 4, 2011

If we read aloud, if we sing them, we too shall share the enthusiasm of our fathers, who were carried away by the pathos, the grandeur, the wit, the inexpressible charm of the unrivaled chansonnier.

From Library of the World's Best Literature, Ancient and Modern — Volume 4 by Mabie, Hamilton Wright