Chausson: Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Poème pour violon & Symphonie

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ernest Chausson with this captivating compilation album, released on October 27, 2016, by Les Indispensables de Diapason. This collection showcases Chausson's mastery of chamber music, featuring a blend of orchestral and vocal works that highlight his distinctive compositional style.

The album opens with Chausson's evocative "Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19," a two-part vocal symphony that explores themes of love and the sea. The poignant "Poème pour violon et orchestre, Op. 25" follows, showcasing the haunting beauty of the violin amidst a lush orchestral backdrop. The centerpiece of the album is Chausson's "Symphonie in B-Flat Major, Op. 20," a three-movement work that demonstrates his skill in orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical landscapes.

The album also includes the tender "2 Mélodies, Op. 36: I. Cantique à l'épouse," a vocal piece that adds a touch of intimacy to the collection. Each track is performed with exquisite precision and passion by a stellar cast of musicians, including Irma Kolassi, Gérard Souzay, Christian Ferras, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Monteux.

Recorded between 1950 and 1955, these performances capture the essence of Chausson's music, offering a timeless exploration of his works. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical music and a perfect introduction for those new to Chausson's enchanting compositions.

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."