Face à face

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of chamber music with Gautier Capuçon's "Face à face," a stunning collaboration with his brother, Renaud Capuçon. Released on November 25, 2003, under the Warner Classics label, this album is a testament to the brothers' exceptional musical prowess and their deep connection as performers. The album features a diverse range of compositions for violin and cello, showcasing the rich tapestry of classical music from various eras and styles.

The album opens with Johannes Halvorsen's Passacaglia for Violin and Cello, a piece that beautifully intertwines the voices of the two instruments. It continues with Zoltán Kodály's Duo for Violin and Cello, Op. 7, a work that highlights the expressive range of both instruments. The album also includes pieces by lesser-known composers like Jacques Tanguy and Erwin Schulhoff, offering a fresh and intriguing listening experience.

Gautier Capuçon, renowned for his virtuosic cello playing, and Renaud Capuçon, celebrated for his expressive violin performances, bring a unique depth and sensitivity to each piece. Their chemistry and shared musical language are evident throughout the album, making it a delight for classical music enthusiasts. Recorded in the acoustically rich setting of the Église Notre Dame du Liban in Paris, the album benefits from a warm and resonant sound that enhances the listening experience.

With a duration of one hour and nine minutes, "Face à face" is a comprehensive exploration of the violin and cello duo repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's careful selection of pieces, combined with the Capuçons' masterful performances, makes "Face à face" a standout release in the world of chamber music.

November 25, 2003

A Warner Classics/Erato release, ℗ 2003 Parlophone Records Limited

About Gautier Capuçon

Gautier Capuçon is a renowned French cellist, celebrated for his charismatic performances and enchanting interpretations of both classical and modern repertoire. Born in Chambéry in 1981, Capuçon began his musical journey at the tender age of four and a half, quickly demonstrating his prodigious talent. He is the younger brother of acclaimed violinist Renaud Capuçon, and together, they are permanent fixtures at France's Bastille Day celebrations.

Capuçon's career is marked by numerous awards and collaborations with some of the world's most prestigious orchestras and conductors. He performs internationally, captivating audiences with his deep musicality and technical virtuosity. His discography, available on platforms like Spotify, showcases his versatility and artistic depth, with a catalog that includes works recorded for Warner Classics and Deutsche Grammophon.

In addition to his performing career, Gautier Capuçon is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. He founded the Classe d'Excellence de Violoncelle in 2014, a project that selects six talented young cellists from around the world for an intensive program of study and performance. Furthermore, his Fondation Gautier Capuçon supports young string players and pianists, reflecting his dedication to musical education and community engagement.

Capuçon plays a 1701 Matteo Goffriller cello named 'L'Ambassadeur,' an instrument that adds a rich, resonant voice to his performances. Whether on stage with leading orchestras or in intimate chamber music settings, Gautier Capuçon's artistry continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.