Bizet: Jeux d'enfants

Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of childhood with Georges Bizet's "Jeux d'enfants," a delightful suite of twelve miniatures composed for piano four hands in 1871. This enchanting collection, Bizet's last and finest piano work, is a gem of piano duet literature, capturing the essence of various children's games and activities with vivid musical storytelling. Each of the twelve pieces paints a colorful scene, from the gentle rocking of "L'escarpolette" to the lively energy of "Le Bal. Galop," offering a charming and unpretentious journey through the innocence and joy of youth.

"Jeux d'enfants" showcases Bizet's mastery of musical description and his ability to evoke vivid imagery through sound. Despite his relatively small output for piano, this suite stands out as a testament to his compositional skill and creativity. The suite's duration of approximately 20 minutes makes it an ideal choice for both casual listening and more focused musical exploration.

Released on December 16, 2016, by Menuetto Classics, this recording features the original piano duet arrangement, allowing listeners to experience the intricate interplay between the two pianists. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking for a charming and engaging listening experience, "Jeux d'enfants" by Georges Bizet is sure to captivate and delight.

Georges Bizet, born in Paris in 1838, was a prodigious French composer whose name is forever linked with one of the most beloved operas of all time, "Carmen." His musical journey began at an early age, with his father, a singing teacher, and his mother, a talented pianist, nurturing his gifts. Bizet's precocious talent led him to the Paris Conservatoire at just nine years old, where he composed his Symphony in C Major at the age of 17. Despite facing early setbacks and struggles, Bizet's determination to succeed on the operatic stage led to works like "The Pearl Fishers" and "La Jolie Fille de Perth." However, it was his final opera, "Carmen," that would cement his legacy. Premiering just months before his untimely death in 1875, "Carmen" has since become a staple of the opera repertoire, known for its vivid characters, dramatic plot, and unforgettable music. Bizet's realistic approach to opera influenced the verismo style that followed, making him a pivotal figure in the Romantic era of classical music.