Koechlin: The Seven Stars' Symphony, Op. 132 & Vers la voûte étoilée, Op. 129

Charles Koechlin's "The Seven Stars' Symphony, Op. 132 & Vers la voûte étoilée, Op. 129" is a captivating journey through the world of chamber music, released on June 3, 2022, under the CapriccioNR label. This album showcases Koechlin's unique compositional style, blending intricate orchestration with evocative melodies.

The centerpiece of the album is "The Seven Stars' Symphony, Op. 132," a seven-movement work dedicated to seven iconic figures of the silent film era. Each movement is named after a different star: Douglas Fairbanks, Lilian Harvey, Greta Garbo, Clara Bow, Marlene Dietrich, Emil Jannings, and Charlie Chaplin. Koechlin's music paints a vivid portrait of each figure, capturing their essence through sound.

The album also features "Vers la voûte étoilée, Op. 129," a standalone piece that complements the symphony with its celestial themes. This work is a testament to Koechlin's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and awe through his music.

Performed by the Symphony Orchestra Basel under the direction of Ariane Matiakh, this album is a testament to the power of chamber music to tell stories and evoke images. With a duration of 56 minutes, it offers a rich and immersive listening experience that is sure to captivate fans of classical music.

Charles Koechlin, born in Paris in 1867, was a French composer, teacher, and musicologist whose eclectic style and independent spirit made him a unique voice in the musical landscape of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Influenced by the likes of Fauré and Massenet, Koechlin's compositions span a wide range of genres, from symphonies and operas to chamber music and songs. His works often reflect his fascination with diverse themes, such as the exotic allure of Persia in "Les Heures persanes" and the enchanting tales of Rudyard Kipling. Koechlin's "Seven Stars Symphony" is a delightful homage to the film stars of his time, showcasing his playful and innovative approach to music. Despite his prolific output, much of Koechlin's music remains relatively unknown, making the exploration of his compositions a rewarding journey for any music enthusiast. His deep personal and independent path in music, coupled with his political radicalism and passion for the esoteric, paints a picture of a composer who was truly ahead of his time.