Chausson: Concert

Immerse yourself in the rich, romantic sounds of late 19th-century French chamber music with Ernest Chausson's captivating album "Chausson: Concert." Released in 2017, this exquisite collection showcases Chausson's mastery of the genre, blending intimate chamber textures with a symphonic grandeur that sets his works apart.

The album opens with Chausson's Trio for Violin, Cello, and Piano in G Major, Op. 3, performed live with a palpable sense of energy and precision. The work's four movements, ranging from the animated to the contemplative, offer a compelling journey through Chausson's unique harmonic language and expressive depth.

The centerpiece of the album is Chausson's Concert for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet in D Major, Op. 21. This remarkable work, composed between 1889 and 1891, is a testament to Chausson's innovative approach to chamber music. With its symphonic character and intricate interplay between soloists and ensemble, the Concert is a tour de force that highlights the exceptional talents of the performers involved.

The album features stellar performances by Jennifer Pike on violin, Tom Poster on piano, and the renowned Doric String Quartet, with additional support from Alex Redington and Jonathan Stone on violin. Their collective virtuosity and musical sensitivity bring Chausson's scores to life, offering a vivid and engaging listening experience.

"Chausson: Concert" is an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, providing a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known but equally captivating works of Ernest Chausson. With a total duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring power of Chausson's music and the timeless appeal of French romantic chamber music.

Ernest Chausson, born into a prosperous Parisian family in 1855, is a composer whose relatively small output belies his significant influence on French music. Initially pursuing law at his father's behest, Chausson's true passion lay in music, leading him to study under the renowned Jules Massenet and César Franck at the Paris Conservatoire. His compositions, though few, are marked by a distinctive originality and a unique blend of Wagnerian lyricism and French harmonic subtlety. Chausson's works span various genres, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, songs, and an opera, all imbued with a romantic sensibility and a touch of symbolist literature influence. Despite his tragic early death at the age of 44, Chausson's music continues to captivate audiences with its beguiling charm and innovative spirit. Notable works include his Concerto for Piano, Violin, and String Quartet and the symphonic poem "Viviane."