Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Paul Dukas with the comprehensive collection "Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano." Released in 2015 under the Calliope label, this album spans a rich 76 minutes, offering a deep dive into the piano compositions of the renowned French composer.

The album showcases a diverse range of Dukas's works, from the intricate and playful "Variations, interlude et final sur un thème de Rameau" to the profound and expressive "Sonate pour le piano in E-Flat Minor." Each piece is meticulously performed, bringing out the nuanced emotions and technical brilliance that Dukas is celebrated for.

Highlights include the lively and rhythmic "Variation II. Assez vif, très rythmé" and the hauntingly beautiful "La plainte, au loin, du faune." The album also features the elegant "Prélude élégiaque sur le nom de Haydn," a tribute to the great composer Joseph Haydn.

This collection is a testament to Dukas's mastery of the piano, blending French and German influences to create a unique and timeless body of work. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Dukas's compositions, this album is a must-listen, offering a comprehensive exploration of one of the most significant figures in classical music.

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.