Dive into the enchanting world of Albert Roussel with this captivating album, featuring a selection of his most evocative works. This recording brings together the talents of the BBC Philharmonic, CBSO Chorus, and a trio of exceptional soloists: Kathryn Rudge, Alessandro Fisher, and François le Roux, all under the baton of the acclaimed conductor Yan Pascal Tortelier.
The album opens with Roussel's Suite in F, Op. 33, a charming three-movement work that showcases the composer's neoclassical leanings and his mastery of orchestral color. The suite's Prélude, Sarabande, and Gigue offer a delightful journey through various dance forms, each imbued with Roussel's unique harmonic language.
Next, the album presents Pour une fête de printemps, Op. 22, originally composed as a Scherzo for Roussel's Second Symphony. This vibrant and audacious piece is a celebration of spring, bursting with energy and color.
The centerpiece of the album is Roussel's Évocations, Op. 15, a song cycle that explores various mythological and literary themes. The three songs that comprise this work—"Les Dieux dans l'ombre des cavernes," "La Ville rose," and "Aux bords du Fleuve sacré"—are each a miniature masterpiece, showcasing Roussel's gift for melody and his deep understanding of the human voice.
Recorded in 2018 and released by Chandos, this album is a testament to Roussel's enduring appeal and his place in the pantheon of great French composers. Whether you're a longtime fan of Roussel or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
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