Schmitt: La Tragédie de Salomé, Le Palais Hanté & Psaume 47

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Florent Schmitt's choral and orchestral masterpieces with this 2011 release from Chandos. This album showcases two of Schmitt's most renowned works, "La Tragédie de Salomé" and "Psaume 47," alongside the lesser-known but equally enchanting "Le Palais hanté." Florent Schmitt, a French composer born in 1870, studied under the tutelage of Jules Massenet and Gabriel Fauré at the Conservatoire de Paris, and his influence shines through in these compositions.

"La Tragédie de Salomé" is a dramatic symphonic poem that brings to life the biblical story of Salome, with its intense and vivid orchestration. The work is divided into five movements, each depicting a different aspect of the tragic tale. "Le Palais hanté," meaning "The Haunted Palace," is a short but evocative piece that paints a picture of a mysterious and eerie atmosphere.

"Psaume 47" is a grand choral work that sets to music the words of Psalm 47 from the Bible. The piece is divided into four movements, each highlighting different aspects of the psalm's text. The powerful combination of chorus and orchestra creates a sense of grandeur and reverence that is truly awe-inspiring.

This album features the exceptional talents of conductor Yan Pascal Tortelier, soprano Susan Bullock, and the Sao Paulo Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Their performances bring Schmitt's music to life with passion and precision, making this a truly unforgettable listening experience. With a total duration of 68 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Florent Schmitt's music and a testament to his enduring legacy as a composer.

Florent Schmitt, born in the picturesque region of Lorraine, France, in 1870, was a composer of remarkable versatility and individuality. His musical journey began in Nancy, where he received his first lessons, and later flourished under the tutelage of Massenet and Fauré at the Paris Conservatoire. Schmitt's career spanned over seven decades, encompassing the tail end of Romanticism, the Impressionist movement, and the dawn of modernism. His compositions, numbering 138 with opus numbers, span a wide array of genres, each marked by his distinctive, opulent, and rhythmically rich style.

Schmitt was part of the influential group Les Apaches, which included notable figures like Ravel and Delius, and his work reflects a blend of Impressionist, post-Romantic, and even Oriental influences. His most celebrated works include the ballet "La tragédie de Salomé" and "Psaume XLVII," both showcasing his powerful and expressive musical language. Schmitt's music, though less known today, was highly regarded in his time, and his unique voice continues to captivate those who discover his works. His legacy is one of a free spirit in French music, a composer who fearlessly explored the rich tapestry of musical expression.