Britten: Les illuminations

Immerse yourself in the evocative world of Benjamin Britten's "Les illuminations" with this captivating album, released in the year 2000 under the Maestoso label. This concise yet powerful collection spans just 46 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of genres including classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral music. The album features two of Britten's most celebrated works: "Les illuminations," a hauntingly beautiful setting of Arthur Rimbaud's poetry for soprano or tenor and string orchestra, and the "Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings," a serene and contemplative piece that showcases Britten's mastery of orchestration.

The album opens with "Les illuminations," a work that Britten composed in 1939 while on a voyage to North America. The piece is a vivid exploration of Rimbaud's surreal and dreamlike poetry, with each of the seven movements painting a unique and captivating scene. From the bustling energy of "Fanfare" to the serene beauty of "Marine," Britten's music brings Rimbaud's words to life in a way that is both intimate and expansive.

The second work on the album is the "Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings," composed in 1943. This enchanting piece is a series of seven songs that explore themes of nature, love, and loss. The work is notable for its use of a solo horn, which adds a unique and haunting timbre to the ensemble. The serene "Pastorale" and the mournful "Dirge" are particularly standout movements, showcasing Britten's ability to convey a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

Throughout the album, Britten's distinctive voice shines through, with his characteristic use of tonal harmony and intricate textures. The performances on this album are top-notch, with the soloists and ensemble bringing a deep understanding and sensitivity to Britten's music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Britten's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The recording details from July 1994 at St Alban's Church, Holborn, London, under the production of Mark Brown and engineering of Antony Howell, ensure a high-quality listening experience.

Benjamin Britten, a titan of 20th-century British music, is celebrated for his profound contributions to opera, choral, and orchestral compositions. Born in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in 1913, Britten began his musical journey at the tender age of six, with his first compositions published during his student years. His operatic works, such as the hauntingly powerful "Peter Grimes" and the poignant "Billy Budd," have earned him a place among the most prominent figures in modern opera, often drawing comparisons to Ralph Vaughan Williams. Britten's repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from enchanting operas to heartfelt choral masterpieces and orchestral gems like "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra." His emotive and accessible compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest British composers of his generation. Beyond his composing prowess, Britten was also a skilled conductor and pianist, and he served as the President of the Society of Recorder Players from 1958 until his passing in 1976.