Musique de Chambre Française

Dive into the rich tapestry of French chamber music with Pascal Rogé's "Musique de Chambre Française," a captivating collection released in 1991 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label. This album, spanning a total of 66 minutes, is a testament to the elegance and sophistication of French classical compositions, featuring works by renowned composers such as Camille Saint-Saëns, Albert Roussel, and Francis Poulenc.

Pascal Rogé, a virtuoso pianist, is joined by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, including Catherine Cantin on flute, Maurice Bourgue on oboe, and Michel Portal on clarinet, among others. Together, they bring to life a diverse range of pieces that showcase the depth and breadth of French musical heritage.

The album opens with Camille Saint-Saëns' "Caprice sur des airs danois et russes, Op. 79," a delightful exploration of Danish and Russian folk tunes, followed by Vincent d'Indy's "Sarabande et Menuet, Op. 72." The ensemble then moves through a variety of moods and styles, from the whimsical "Danse de la sorcière" from Darius Milhaud's ballet "Le Jardin du Paradis" to the playful "L'heure du berger" by Francis Poulenc.

Notable highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Élégie for Horn & Piano 'In Memory of Dennis Brain'" by Francis Poulenc, a tribute to the legendary horn player, and Albert Roussel's "Sonate pour flûte, hautbois, clarinette et piano, Op. 47," a masterful work that showcases the individual talents of each musician as well as their collective harmony.

Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a casual listener, "Musique de Chambre Française" offers a delightful journey through the world of French chamber music, performed by some of the most talented musicians of our time.