"Bienvenue en France" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of 20th-century French music, as interpreted by the renowned oboist François Leleux and pianist Emmanuel Strosser. Released on Warner Classics in August 2020, this album showcases the unique and expressive qualities of the oboe, an instrument that has held a special place in French culture since the time of Louis XIV.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, from the well-known works of Camille Saint-Saëns and Claude Debussy to lesser-explored pieces by André Jolivet, Eugène Bozza, and Pierre Sancan. Contemporary composer Thierry Pécou is also represented, adding a modern touch to the collection. Each piece is performed with exquisite skill and sensitivity, highlighting the nuanced interplay between Leleux's oboe and Strosser's piano.
The album opens with Saint-Saëns' Oboe Sonata, Op. 166, a work that demonstrates the composer's mastery of the instrument and his ability to evoke a range of emotions. The sonatas by Henri Dutilleux and Thierry Pécou follow, each offering a unique perspective on the oboe's capabilities. Debussy's Rhapsody, arranged for oboe by Silvestrini, is a highlight of the album, showcasing the composer's distinctive harmonic language and the oboe's expressive potential.
Other notable works include Eugène Bozza's Fantaisie pastorale, a charming and evocative piece that highlights the oboe's lyrical qualities, and Pierre Sancan's Oboe Sonatine, a work that demands technical virtuosity and musical sensitivity. The album concludes with André Jolivet's Chanson de Nuit, a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases the oboe's ability to convey a sense of longing and introspection.
Throughout the album, Leleux's playing is marked by its technical brilliance, expressive depth, and musical insight. Strosser's accompaniment is equally impressive, providing a solid foundation for Leleux's playing while also contributing his own musical ideas. Together, they create a compelling and engaging portrait of the oboe in 20th-century French music. "Bienvenue en France" is a testament to the enduring appeal of the oboe and the rich musical heritage of France.
Vinylscout