Poulenc: Les biches Suite, Les animaux modèles Suite & Sinfonietta

Dive into the vibrant and witty world of Francis Poulenc with this captivating album, released on Naxos in 2018. This collection showcases Poulenc's mastery of neoclassical and classical styles, offering a delightful blend of orchestral suites and a sinfonietta that are sure to enchant both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The album opens with "Les biches Suite," a lively and charming ballet suite that exemplifies Poulenc's unique ability to blend humor and elegance. Following this, "Les animaux modèles Suite" brings to life the characters from La Fontaine's fables, transformed into human figures through Poulenc's colorful and imaginative scoring. Each movement, from "Le petit jour" to "Les deux coqs," is a testament to Poulenc's wit and musical ingenuity.

The album concludes with the "Sinfonietta," a four-movement work that highlights Poulenc's skill in crafting dynamic and engaging orchestral music. The "Allegro con fuoco" and "Finale" are particularly noteworthy for their energy and vivacity, while the "Andante cantabile" offers a moment of serene beauty.

Conducted by Jean-Luc Tingaud and performed by the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, this album is a celebration of Poulenc's enduring appeal and musical brilliance. With a total runtime of just over an hour, it's a perfect introduction to Poulenc's work or a welcome addition to any classical music collection.