Chabrier: Songs

Emmanuel Chabrier, renowned for his vibrant orchestral works like "España" and "Joyeuse marche," reveals another facet of his musical genius in this comprehensive collection of his songs. Released in 2002, "Chabrier: Songs" is a double CD set featuring all 43 of Chabrier's songs, including his 16 settings of "Les plus jolis chansons du pays de France," which were previously unrecorded. This album is a treasure trove for fans of French art song, showcasing Chabrier's wit, charm, and melodic inventiveness.

The album spans a duration of 2 hours and 34 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical styles and themes. From the whimsical "L'enfant" and the playful "Ronde Gauloise" to the evocative "L'invitation au voyage" and the dramatic "Credo d'amour," Chabrier's songs are a delightful exploration of the human experience. His settings of traditional French folk songs are particularly noteworthy, each one imbued with his unique musical personality.

Performances are led by the esteemed soprano Felicity Lott, accompanied by Geraldine McGreevy, Graham Johnson on piano, and the vocal ensemble Polyphony. Their interpretations bring out the full range of Chabrier's expressive power, from the light-hearted and humorous to the deeply poignant. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Chabrier's music or a newcomer to his art songs, this collection is an essential addition to your library, offering a deep dive into the songwriting prowess of one of France's most beloved composers.

Emmanuel Chabrier, born Alexis-Emmanuel Chabrier, was a French Romantic composer and pianist whose musical journey was as captivating as the era he lived in. Born in Ambert in 1841, Chabrier's life spanned a pivotal period in French musical history, with giants like Berlioz already making waves when he was a young man. Despite his bourgeois upbringing and family disapproval, Chabrier pursued his passion for music, studying law and working as a civil servant while composing in his spare time. It was not until he was nearly forty that he dedicated himself fully to his musical career.

Chabrier's compositions are a delightful blend of French elegance and Spanish flair, with his orchestral works "España" and "Joyeuse marche" being particularly renowned. His life in artistic Montmartre was rich with friendships, including poets like Verlaine, painters such as Renoir, Monet, and Manet, and writers like Zola and Daudet. Chabrier's music reflects the vibrant and diverse cultural milieu in which he thrived, making his works a joy to explore for any music enthusiast.