Claude Debussy: Sonate pour flûte, alto et harpe, Les Chansons de Bilitis, Syrinx

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Claude Debussy with this captivating album, released in 1997 under the Harmonia Mundi label. This collection showcases Debussy's mastery of classical composition, featuring a blend of instrumental and vocal works that highlight his unique impressionistic style.

The album opens with the Sonate pour flûte, alto et harpe, a trio that exudes elegance and sophistication. The three movements, Pastorale, Interlude, and Final, are performed with exquisite precision by Philippe Bernold on flute, Gérard Caussé on viola, and Germaine Lorenzini on harp.

Next, the album delves into the poetic world of Les Chansons de Bilitis, a series of songs inspired by the poems of Pierre Louÿs. These pieces are brought to life by the delicate flute work of Mathieu Dufour, accompanied by the ethereal harp of Germaine Lorenzini. The songs range from tender and intimate to lively and playful, showcasing the versatility of Debussy's compositional genius.

The album also includes the iconic Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune, a solo flute piece that is as haunting as it is beautiful. Performed by Philippe Bernold, this piece is a testament to Debussy's ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through music.

Finally, the album concludes with La Flûte de Pan (Syrinx), a solo flute piece that is both serene and melancholic. This version includes a recitation, adding a new dimension to the piece and providing a fitting end to this collection of Debussy's works.

With a total runtime of just over 50 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Claude Debussy. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.