Dukas: Symphonie, La Péri, L’apprenti sorcier & Polyeucte

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Paul Dukas with this captivating album, released on November 9, 2021, by Warner Classics. This collection showcases the brilliance of Dukas' compositions, featuring a blend of orchestral masterpieces that span a variety of moods and styles.

The album opens with the iconic "L'Apprenti sorcier" (The Sorcerer's Apprentice), a piece that has become a staple in classical music, known for its lively and whimsical charm. Following this, the album delves into the mystical and exotic with selections from "La Péri," including the dramatic "Fanfare" and the evocative "Poème dansé." These pieces are a testament to Dukas' ability to create vivid musical landscapes that transport the listener to another realm.

The album also includes "Polyeucte," a lesser-known but equally compelling work, and the rarely performed Symphony in C Major. This symphony is a hidden gem, offering a rich and complex listening experience with its three distinct movements: the energetic "Allegro non troppo vivace, ma con fuoco," the serene "Andante espressivo e sostenuto," and the spirited "Allegro spiritoso."

Conducted by Jean Martinon and performed by the Orchestre National de l'O.R.T.F., this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Dukas' music. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Dukas' genius, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

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.