Dive into the enchanting world of French late Romantic music with Ernest Chausson's "Chausson: Songs," a captivating collection of his vocal works released in 2001. This album, spanning over two hours, offers a comprehensive journey through Chausson's songwriting career, showcasing his unique blend of poetic sensitivity and musical innovation.
Comprising 52 tracks, the album features a rich tapestry of melodies that range from the delicate and intimate to the dramatic and impassioned. Chausson's songs, often settings of French poetry, are known for their expressive vocal lines and lush harmonies, making this album a treasure trove for both Chausson enthusiasts and those new to his music.
The album begins with selections from Chausson's "7 Mélodies, Op. 2," including the whimsical "Les papillons" and the evocative "La dernière feuille." It continues with a variety of other works, such as the haunting "L'albatros" and the tender "Nous nous aimerons." The album also includes Chausson's settings of poems by Verlaine, Shakespeare, and other notable poets, demonstrating his versatility and depth as a composer.
Chausson's music is characterized by its lyrical beauty and harmonic richness, and this album is no exception. The performances are sensitive and nuanced, bringing out the full expressive range of Chausson's songs. Whether you're a fan of French art song, a lover of late Romantic music, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful music, this album is sure to delight. The album's duration of over two hours ensures that you can immerse yourself in Chausson's musical world for an extended period, discovering new favorites and appreciating old ones.
Ernest Chausson, a prominent figure in French Romantic music, left an indelible mark on the late 19th-century musical landscape despite his tragically short life. Born into an affluent Parisian family, Chausson initially pursued law but soon turned his passion to music, studying under the esteemed Jules Massenet and César Franck at the Paris Conservatory. His compositions, though relatively few in number, are celebrated for their originality and beguiling charm. Chausson's works span various genres, including chamber music, orchestral pieces, operas, and songs, each imbued with a unique blend of Wagnerian lyricism and French harmonic finesse. Among his most notable works is the "Poème" for violin and orchestra, a piece that began as a symphonic poem but evolved into a concertante character piece. Chausson's untimely death in a bicycle accident at the age of 44 cut short a promising career, but his legacy endures, influencing future generations of composers and captivating audiences with his evocative and deeply personal music.
Vinylscout
Ernest Chausson
