Canteloube: Chants d'Auvergne - Chausson: Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19

Immerse yourself in the rich, folkloric sounds of France with Joseph Canteloube's "Chants d'Auvergne" and the poetic elegance of Ernest Chausson's "Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19". This captivating album, released on July 14, 2023, by Warner Classics, offers a unique blend of traditional Auvergnat melodies and late Romantic French art songs.

Joseph Canteloube's "Chants d'Auvergne" is a collection of folk songs from the Auvergne region of France, meticulously arranged and orchestrated by Canteloube himself. These songs, sung in the Occitan language, showcase the rustic beauty and deep emotional resonance of the region's musical heritage. The album features renowned soprano Victoria de los Angeles, whose crystalline voice brings these timeless melodies to life with exquisite sensitivity and expressive power.

Complementing Canteloube's folk songs is Ernest Chausson's "Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19", a cycle of three songs that explores the depths of love and the sea. Chausson's lush, evocative music is performed with nuanced artistry by de los Angeles, accompanied by the Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon under the skilled direction of Kent Nagano. The combination of these two works creates a compelling journey through the musical landscapes of France, from the pastoral simplicity of the Auvergne to the dramatic intensity of Chausson's poetic masterpiece.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 38 minutes, this album is a feast for the ears, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you are a fan of folk music, art songs, or simply appreciate the beauty of French music, this album is sure to captivate and enchant you.