Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French Romanticism with Ernest Chausson's captivating album, featuring two of his most celebrated works. This 1968 release on Warner Classics presents Chausson's "Chanson perpétuelle, Op. 37" and his "Concert for Violin, Piano and String Quartet, Op. 21," both performed with exquisite sensitivity and technical prowess.
The album opens with "Chanson perpétuelle, Op. 37," a mesmerizing song cycle that showcases Chausson's lyrical genius. The piece, written for soprano, piano, and string quartet, is a setting of a poem by Charles Cros, and its haunting melodies and rich harmonies are sure to captivate listeners. The performance is brought to life by a stellar cast of musicians, including a renowned soprano, pianist, and the esteemed Schoenberg String Quartet.
Following this is Chausson's "Concert for Violin, Piano and String Quartet, Op. 21," a work that demonstrates the composer's mastery of chamber music. The concerto, performed here with remarkable virtuosity, is a tour de force of musical expression, featuring a dialogue between the violin, piano, and string quartet that is both intimate and dramatic. The four movements, from the decisive opening to the animated finale, offer a journey through a landscape of sounds and textures that is uniquely Chausson's own.
With a duration of just over 44 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Chausson's artistry. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of chamber music or a newcomer to the genre, this recording promises a rewarding listening experience. The performances are marked by a deep understanding of Chausson's style, bringing out the subtleties and nuances of his compositions with clarity and precision.
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