Milhaud: Chamber Works

Dive into the rich and diverse world of Darius Milhaud's chamber music with this captivating collection of works. Born into a Provençal Jewish milieu, Milhaud's unique cultural background shines through in his compositions, offering a blend of influences that is distinctly his own. This album, released in 2006, features a selection of Milhaud's most compelling chamber pieces, showcasing his mastery of the genre.

The album opens with the enchanting Suite for Clarinet, Violin and Piano, Op. 157b, a work that exemplifies Milhaud's neoclassical style. The suite's four movements—Ouverture, Divertissement, Jeu, and Introduction et final—provide a delightful journey through Milhaud's musical landscape. Following this is the Viola Sonata No. 2, Op. 244, a piece that highlights the expressive range of the viola, with movements titled Champêtre, Dramatique, and Rude.

The Sonata for Flute, Clarinet, Oboe and Piano, Op. 47, adds a layer of complexity and richness with its four movements: Tranquille, Joyeux, Emporté, and Douloureux. Each movement offers a unique listening experience, from the serene tranquility of the first to the joyous exuberance of the second.

The Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 40, continues the exploration of Milhaud's chamber music, with its four movements—Pastoral, Vif, Lent, and Très vif—each offering a different mood and tempo. The album concludes with the Piano Quartet, Op. 417, a work that showcases Milhaud's ability to blend different instruments into a cohesive and harmonious whole.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a comprehensive introduction to Milhaud's chamber music. Whether you are a long-time fan of Milhaud or a newcomer to his work, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire. The performances are brought to life by the talented musicians of Channel Classics, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.