"Enregistrements Inédits"

Album Description

Henri Sauguet, a prominent figure in 20th-century French music, invites you into his sonic world with the release of "Enregistrements Inédits". This collection, released posthumously on November 30, 2001, under the INA Mémoire vive label, offers a unique glimpse into the composer's versatility and depth. Spanning a rich 74 minutes, the album is a testament to Sauguet's mastery of various musical forms and his ability to blend tradition with innovation.

The album opens with Sauguet's "Sonate pour violoncelle seul", a powerful and introspective exploration of the cello's expressive capabilities. The sonata's three movements, from the agitated Allegro to the playful Allegretto scherzando, showcase Sauguet's skill in crafting dynamic and evocative musical narratives.

The album then transitions into a series of vocal works, highlighting Sauguet's talent for setting poetry to music. Pieces like "Aspect sentimental (sous un parapluie)" and "Les Jeux de l'amour et du hasard" demonstrate his ability to capture the essence of poetic texts, from the sentimental to the playful. The album also features settings of poems by Friedrich Schiller and Georges Hugnet, showcasing Sauguet's engagement with international literary traditions.

"Visions infernales (Jacob)" offers a darker, more dramatic contrast, with its vivid and intense musical depictions. The aria "Aria d'Eduardo Poeta" is a standout, offering a glimpse into Sauguet's operatic style.

The album concludes with "Musique pour Cendrars" and the suite "La" Chèvrefeuille, a collection of mélodies that encapsulate Sauguet's lyrical and expressive prowess. These pieces, set to poems by Georges Hugnet, are a beautiful demonstration of Sauguet's ability to blend words and music into a cohesive and evocative whole.

"Enregistrements Inédits" is not just a collection of previously unreleased works; it's a journey through the musical landscape of Henri Sauguet, revealing the breadth and depth of his artistic vision. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Sauguet's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling and enriching listening experience.

30 november 2001

2015 Ina Memoire Vive

2015 Ina Mémoire Vive

About Henri Sauguet

Henri Sauguet, born Henri-Pierre Poupard in 1901, was a French composer whose musical journey was as captivating as his compositions. Born in Bordeaux, Sauguet's passion for music was evident from a young age, despite having to work as an errand boy early in life. His love for music led him to study piano and organ, and he eventually moved to Paris with the encouragement of Darius Milhaud. There, he became one of the notable disciples of Erik Satie and was part of a group of young composers who made significant contributions to French music.

Sauguet's extensive body of work includes operas, ballets, symphonies, concertos, chamber music, choral pieces, and film scores. His compositions are celebrated for their simple charm and melodic grace, reflecting his deep appreciation for the music of Bizet, Schumann, and Debussy. Among his notable works are the ballet "Les Forains" and the opera "Les caprices de Marianne." Sauguet's collaborations with Joseph Canteloube, including collecting folk songs, further enriched his musical repertoire.

Throughout his career, Sauguet remained prolific, composing well into his later years. His music continues to be admired for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth, making him a cherished figure in the world of classical music.