Folies parisiennes

Album Description

"Folies Parisiennes" is a captivating journey through the rich musical heritage of Paris, brought to life by the virtuoso trumpeter Romain Leleu and his accomplished pianist partner, Julien Gernay. Released on December 6, 2024, via Harmonia Mundi, this album is a testament to the duo's musical prowess and their deep appreciation for the unique sounds of the instruments housed in the Musée de la musique.

The album features a diverse range of compositions, from classical favorites to lesser-known gems, all beautifully arranged for trumpet and piano. Highlights include arrangements of works by composers such as George Gershwin, Maurice Ravel, and Claude Debussy, as well as original compositions that showcase the duo's artistic vision. The tracklist spans a variety of styles and moods, from the lively "Golliwogg's Cake-Walk" to the introspective "Gymnopédie No. 1."

Romain Leleu, known for his dynamic performances and technical brilliance, is joined by Julien Gernay, whose sensitive and nuanced playing complements Leleu's trumpet beautifully. Together, they create a musical dialogue that is both engaging and deeply satisfying.

"Folies Parisiennes" is a celebration of Parisian musical culture, offering listeners a chance to explore the city's rich musical legacy through the lens of two of its most talented contemporary musicians. With its diverse repertoire and high-quality performances, this album is sure to delight classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The album runs for 66 minutes and features 18 tracks, providing a comprehensive and enjoyable listening experience.

6 dec 2024

2024 harmonia mundi

2024 harmonia mundi / RL Production

About Romain Leleu

Romain Leleu is a celebrated French classical trumpeter renowned for his virtuosic performances and innovative approach to music. Born in Lille in 1983, Leleu began his musical journey at a young age, studying at the prestigious CNSMD de Paris and later refining his skills under the guidance of Reinhold Friedrich at the Musikhochschule of Karlsruhe. His career has taken him across five continents, where he has captivated audiences with his mastery of the trumpet, spanning from Baroque to contemporary compositions. Leleu's discography is as diverse as it is impressive, featuring collaborations with renowned orchestras and ensembles, as well as solo works that showcase his technical prowess and artistic versatility. He is the elder brother of tuba player Thomas Leleu, and together, they have performed as the Virtuosi duo. Leleu's accolades include being named a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication in 2016, and winning the Victoires de la Musique Classique award for Revelation Instrumental Soloist in 2009. Beyond his performances, Leleu is also dedicated to education, offering masterclasses worldwide and recently launching his own label, RL Records, with the release of his album "Nuit Fantastique." Whether performing iconic film scores or resurrecting historic instruments, Romain Leleu continues to push the boundaries of classical music, making him a standout figure in the contemporary classical scene.