Milhaud : Music for 2 pianos/Carnaval d'Aix/Suites

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse world of French classical music with Georges Prêtre's "Milhaud: Music for 2 Pianos/Carnaval d'Aix/Suites." This captivating album, released on January 1, 2001, under EMI Classics, showcases the brilliance of composer Darius Milhaud and the mastery of conductor Georges Prêtre.

Spanning a little over an hour, this collection is a delightful journey through various musical landscapes. It begins with the lively and intricate "Scaramouche" for two pianos, followed by the enchanting "Le Bal Martiniquais Pour Deux Pianos," which offers a taste of the Caribbean with its Creole song and Biguine. The album then takes you on a tour of Paris with the "Paris, Suite Pour 4 Pianos," each movement painting a vivid picture of iconic locations like Montmartre, the Île Saint-Louis, and the Eiffel Tower.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Le Carnaval D'Aix," a fantastical suite based on the opera "Salade." This work is a riot of colors and characters, from the bustling "Le Corso" to the tender "Isabelle" and the lively "Polka." The album concludes with the "Suite française Op.248," a musical tour of France that visits regions like Normandy, Brittany, and Provence.

Georges Prêtre, known for his dynamic and expressive conducting, brings these works to life with his signature passion and precision. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.