Dukas: The Sorcerer's Apprentice, Symphony in C Major & La Péri

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Paul Dukas with this remarkable album, released on November 1, 1999, under the Telarc label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this collection showcases Dukas' extraordinary compositional prowess and his unique ability to blend orchestral brilliance with evocative storytelling.

The album opens with the grand "Fanfare to La Péri," setting the stage for the enchanting ballet suite "La Péri." This work is followed by the iconic "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," a piece that catapulted Dukas to fame and remains one of his most celebrated compositions. The album also features his Symphony in C Major, a three-movement masterpiece that demonstrates Dukas' mastery of symphonic form and his ability to create rich, engaging musical narratives.

Each track on this album is a testament to Dukas' innovative spirit and his deep understanding of orchestral colors and textures. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of Paul Dukas and a delightful exploration of his musical legacy.

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.