Fauré: Requiem / Ravel: Pavane pour une infante défunte

This album presents a serene and contemplative journey through two of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire, performed by some of the most renowned artists of the 20th century. At the heart of the album is Gabriel Fauré's Requiem, Op. 48, a piece known for its gentle and consoling character, a departure from the dramatic and grandiose style of many other requiems. The work is performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by the esteemed Carlo Maria Giulini, with soloists Kathleen Battle and Andreas Schmidt lending their voices to the Offertoire and Libera me movements. The Requiem's seven movements, including the famous "Pie Jesu," offer a profound sense of peace and tranquility.

Complementing Fauré's Requiem is Maurice Ravel's Pavane pour une infante défunte, a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases the elegance and refinement of Ravel's compositional style. The Philharmonia Orchestra, under Giulini's baton, delivers a performance that is both delicate and powerful, capturing the essence of this evocative work.

Recorded in March 1986 at the Watford Town Hall in London, this album benefits from exceptional acoustics and a top-tier ensemble, resulting in a recording that is both historically significant and musically compelling. The album's duration of just under 50 minutes makes it an ideal selection for those seeking a concise yet deeply enriching classical experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a timeless and soothing listening experience.

Gabriel Fauré, born in Pamiers, France, in 1845, was a titan of French music, renowned for his compositions, organ and piano performances, and influential teaching. As one of the leading composers of his generation, Fauré's unique harmonic and melodic style paved the way for many 20th-century composers. His works, such as the evocative "Pavane," the serene "Requiem," and the enchanting "Clair de lune," showcase his refined and gentle musical language, blending sensuality with reserve. Fauré's innovative approach to harmony and melody earned him a place among the most influential figures in late 19th and early 20th-century music. A founding member of the Société Nationale de Musique, he collaborated with and influenced notable figures like Saint-Saëns, Bizet, and his student Maurice Ravel. Throughout his career, Fauré's compositions evolved, with his later works demonstrating a more complex and sophisticated style. His enduring legacy lies in his ability to create music that is both accessible and deeply expressive, resonating with audiences and inspiring generations of musicians.

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Tracks

More albums by Gabriel Fauré

The Complete Warner Classics Edition

Il était une fois... André Cluytens

Forest Murmurs

Aldo Ciccolini, lirico spinto - The Centenary Collection

Une vie pour l'orgue

French Melodies

"Rêverie" - A Moment of Calm

Grieg: Morning Mood - Albinoni: Adagio - Gluck: Dance of the Blessed Spirits - Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring & Badinerie & Other Classical Hits

Relaxing Cello

The Sparkling Pianist

"Melancholy" - Classical Moods

On a Summer Evening

"Respiro" - Quiet Summer Hours

"Classical Drive - Guess that Theme"

Swans

Chefs d'oeuvre de la musique classique française

"Chanson de Nuit" - Lullabies for a Relaxing Evening

"54 Classical Piano Essentials" : Romance

"La fille aux cheveux de lin" - Quiet Summer Hours

Great Sacred Choruses

Nicolai Gedda - The Golden Voice

Music by the Sea

Pachelbel: Canon - Albinoni: Adagio - Bach: Air on G String - Mozart: Eine kleine Nachtmusik - Fauré: Pavane & Other Classical Hits

A Song Recital

"The Passion for Music" - Beecham the Indomitable

"La fille aux cheveux de lin" - Debussy, Ravel, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninov, Satie

"Pavane" - Peaceful Meditation

"Adagio" - Smooth Music to Relax

"Harmonies" - Gnossiennes. Satie and Legacy

Colours of Impressionism

The Inimitable Sir Thomas

Concert of the Birds

"Après Un Rêve": Faure and Legacy

"Mélodies" - Musique Française

Zen Classics - Relaxing Music

French Romantic Music: Fauré, Chabrier, Bizet

The Essential Kotaro Fukuma

The Centenary Album

"A Beautiful Afternoon in the Garden" - French Works

"A Classical Selection" - Debussy, Satie, Ravel

"Little Suite" - Lullabies for a Relaxing Evening

Relaxing Classics

Zzzz. Carnival of the Insects - A Symphony for Life

Scheherazade - The Magic of Music

Hélène Grimaud & Friends - Fantasias

"A Classical Landscape" - Berceuse

Tranquil Harp Vol. II

Contemplation

"Pastoral" - Orchestral Favourites

A Garden After the Rain - Sounds & Fragrances

An American in Paris

Classical Lullabies

"Music for a While" - Relaxing Melodies

"Air" - Peaceful Hours

"Moment Musical" - Quiet Hours

The Trumpet Fairy

Stephen Kovacevich & Friends - A Joyful Week in Music

"Melody" - Relaxing Music for a Workday

"Cantique" - Deep Concentration & Focus

"Adagietto" - Smooth Music to Relax

"A Legend" - From Mozart to Stravinsky

Barenboim - The Conductor

"Clair de Lune" - Musique Française

"Andante" - Focus & Concentration