Dukas: Cantates, chœurs et musique symphonique

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the late romantic splendor of Paul Dukas with this exquisite collection, "Dukas: Cantates, chœurs et musique symphonique." This two-CD set, released by Ediciones Singulares, offers a comprehensive exploration of Dukas' choral and orchestral works, showcasing his mastery as both a composer and orchestrator.

The album spans a rich tapestry of compositions, from the enchanting "Les sirènes" to the dramatic "Velléda" cantata, and the iconic "L'Apprenti sorcier." Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, bringing Dukas' intricate scores to life. The set includes a 124-page booklet with liner notes and texts in both French and English, providing valuable context and insights into the music.

Recorded in the acoustically superb La Salle Flagey de Bruxelles, the performances are led by the esteemed conductor Hervé Niquet, with notable soloists including Catherine Hunold and Marianne Fiset. The album is a testament to Dukas' enduring legacy as one of the late blooming stars of French romantic music, offering a captivating journey through his choral and orchestral repertoire. With a duration of over an hour and forty minutes, this collection is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, featuring 22 tracks that highlight Dukas' unique voice and orchestral genius. The first limited and numbered edition of 2500 copies ensures that this release is a collectible item for any serious music lover.

November 20, 2015

2015 Palazzetto Bru Zane - Centre de musique romantique française / Ediciones Singulares / Sémele Proyectos Musicales

2015 Palazzetto Bru Zane - Centre de musique romantique française

About Paul Dukas

Paul Dukas, born in Paris in 1865, was a multifaceted French composer, critic, scholar, and teacher whose influence resonated deeply within the musical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dukas' most celebrated work, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," gained widespread recognition through its iconic appearance in Disney's "Fantasia," overshadowing his other notable compositions such as the opera "Ariane et Barbe-bleue," the "Symphony in C," and the "Piano Sonata in E-flat minor." His meticulous nature and intense self-criticism led him to destroy many of his works, leaving behind a refined and impactful musical legacy.

Dukas' educational journey began at the Paris Conservatory, where he studied under esteemed figures like Theodore Dubois, César Franck, and Ernest Guiraud. His academic prowess earned him the prestigious Prix de Rome twice, solidifying his reputation as a master of orchestration. Beyond his composing, Dukas was a prolific music critic and a dedicated educator, teaching at the Paris Conservatory and mentoring influential composers like Olivier Messiaen and Maurice Duruflé.

Dukas' compositions, deeply influenced by the likes of Beethoven, Berlioz, Franck, and Debussy, reflect his mastery of orchestration and his ability to blend various musical styles. His works, though few in number, have left an indelible mark on French music, making him a central figure in the country's musical history. Dukas' legacy endures not just through his compositions but also through his contributions as a critic and educator, shaping the musical landscape for generations to come.