Sauguet: Les trois quatuors

Album Description

Henri Sauguet's "Les trois quatuors" is a captivating collection of three string quartets, released on May 4, 2018, under the Timpani label. Spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album offers a deep dive into the intricate and expressive world of Sauguet's compositional style.

Henri Sauguet, born in 1901 and passing away in 1989, was a French composer whose works often reflected the vibrant cultural landscape of Paris in the early 20th century. His music, as heard in this album, is characterized by its melodic richness and emotional depth. The string quartets presented here showcase Sauguet's ability to craft stirring melodies and evoke big emotions, much like his other notable works such as "La Nuit" and his opera "Les Caprices de Marianne."

The album begins with the String Quartet No. 1, featuring four distinct movements that range from the Allegretto to the Finale. The String Quartet No. 2 follows, with its own unique blend of tempos and moods, from the Andantino capriccioso to the Allegro moderato. The final quartet, String Quartet No. 3, concludes the collection with its own set of movements, each offering a different facet of Sauguet's compositional genius.

This album is not just a showcase of Sauguet's technical prowess but also a testament to his ability to connect with the listener on a profound level. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Les trois quatuors" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring appeal of Henri Sauguet's music.

4 mei 2018

2018 Timpani

About Henri Sauguet

Henri Sauguet, born Henri-Pierre Poupard in 1901, was a French composer whose musical journey was as captivating as his compositions. Born in Bordeaux, Sauguet's passion for music was evident from a young age, despite having to work as an errand boy early in life. His love for music led him to study piano and organ, and he eventually moved to Paris with the encouragement of Darius Milhaud. There, he became one of the notable disciples of Erik Satie and was part of a group of young composers who made significant contributions to French music.

Sauguet's extensive body of work includes operas, ballets, symphonies, concertos, chamber music, choral pieces, and film scores. His compositions are celebrated for their simple charm and melodic grace, reflecting his deep appreciation for the music of Bizet, Schumann, and Debussy. Among his notable works are the ballet "Les Forains" and the opera "Les caprices de Marianne." Sauguet's collaborations with Joseph Canteloube, including collecting folk songs, further enriched his musical repertoire.

Throughout his career, Sauguet remained prolific, composing well into his later years. His music continues to be admired for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth, making him a cherished figure in the world of classical music.