Fauré: Orchestral Works - Incidental Music

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gabriel Fauré's orchestral works, masterfully conducted by Michel Plasson. This EMI Classics release, "Fauré: Orchestral Works - Incidental Music," is a comprehensive collection of Fauré's incidental music, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that span various moods and styles.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Pelléas et Mélisande" incidental music, a suite that includes the evocative "Prélude" and the delicate "Sicilienne." Fauré's ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through music is evident in these pieces, which are among his most celebrated works.

The collection also features the charming "Masques et Bergamasques," a suite that includes the lively "Ouverture" and the serene "Pastorale." This suite showcases Fauré's talent for blending elegance and wit, creating a delightful musical experience.

In addition to these well-known works, the album includes lesser-known but equally captivating pieces such as the incidental music to "Shylock" and "Caligula." These compositions demonstrate Fauré's versatility and his ability to adapt his musical language to different dramatic contexts.

The album also features some of Fauré's standalone orchestral works, including the melancholic "Elégie in C Minor" and the whimsical "Berceuse Pour Violon & Orchestre." These pieces provide a welcome contrast to the incidental music, showcasing Fauré's range as a composer.

With a total runtime of over two hours, this album offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Michel Plasson's conducting is nuanced and expressive, bringing out the full depth and beauty of Fauré's music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Fauré or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.