Der Zauberlehrling

Dive into the enchanting world of Paul Dukas with his captivating album "Der Zauberlehrling," released on November 13, 2020, under Warner Music Group and X5 Music Group. This album is a masterclass in program music, showcasing Dukas' ability to weave narrative and symphonic brilliance into a cohesive and engaging musical experience.

The centerpiece of the album is "L'apprenti sorcier," also known as "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." This iconic piece, subtitled "Scherzo after a ballad by Goethe," is based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's famous ballad "Der Zauberlehrling." Dukas composed this work in 1897 to commemorate the centenary of Goethe's poem, creating a symphonic poem that brings the story of a magician's apprentice and his disastrous attempts at magic to life. The piece is a staple of orchestral repertoire, renowned for its vivid imagery and technical virtuosity.

In addition to "L'apprenti sorcier," the album features "La Péri," a ballet score that showcases Dukas' lyrical and dramatic strengths. The ballet is divided into two parts: "Fanfare" and "La Péri," each offering a unique blend of orchestral colors and rhythmic intricacy.

The album also includes Dukas' "Symphony in C Major," a work that demonstrates his mastery of classical form and orchestration. The symphony is divided into three movements: "Allegro non troppo vivace, ma non fuoco," "Andante espressivo e sostemento," and "Allegro spirituoso." Each movement offers a different facet of Dukas' compositional genius, from the energetic and playful to the deeply expressive.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, "Der Zauberlehrling" is a rich and varied exploration of Paul Dukas' musical legacy. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Dukas' work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique voice and enduring appeal.

Paul Dukas, born in Paris in 1865, was a French composer, critic, scholar, and teacher whose modest yet impactful body of work has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. Known for his intense self-criticism, Dukas destroyed many of his compositions, leaving behind a select few masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences today. His most renowned work, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," gained widespread acclaim through its iconic use in Disney's "Fantasia," overshadowing his other notable compositions such as the opera "Ariane et Barbe-bleue," the "Symphony in C," and the ballet "La Péri." Dukas' meticulous approach to composition and his influence as a teacher have solidified his status as one of the great French composers of the early twentieth century. Despite his retiring personality, his musical legacy endures, inviting listeners to explore the depth and brilliance of his artistic vision.