Milhaud: Aspen Serenade - Stanford Serenade - Les rêves de Jacob

Dive into the rich and evocative world of Darius Milhaud with this captivating collection of chamber works. This album showcases Milhaud's distinctive neoclassical style, blending his French roots with influences from his time in the United States. The centerpiece of the album is "Les rêves de Jacob, Op. 294," a five-movement suite inspired by the biblical story of Jacob's dreams. Each movement paints a vivid musical landscape, from the mysterious "L'échelle des anges" to the dynamic "Lutte avec l'ange et bénédiction."

The album also features two serene and charming serenades: the "Stanford Sérénade, Op. 430," composed during Milhaud's tenure at Stanford University, and the "Aspen Sérénade, Op. 361," inspired by the scenic Aspen, Colorado. These works highlight Milhaud's mastery of chamber music, with each piece crafted to showcase the unique timbres and dialogues between the instruments.

Recorded in 2013 by the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Gilbert Varga, this album offers a fresh and vibrant interpretation of Milhaud's music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Milhaud's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album provides an engaging and enjoyable exploration of his creative genius. With a total duration of 44 minutes, it's an ideal addition to any classical music collection.