Florent Schmitt: Lied et Scherzo, Suite en rocaille, A tour d'anches, Chants alizés

Florent Schmitt's "Lied et Scherzo, Suite en rocaille, A tour d'anches, Chants alizés" is a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's unique style and mastery of wind instruments. Released on November 1, 2000, by Praga Digitals, this album features the Prague Wind Quintet and The Czech Nonet, delivering a rich and diverse musical experience.

The album spans 55 minutes and includes 14 tracks, divided into four distinct suites: "Lied et Scherzo, Op. 54," "Suite en rocaille, Op. 84," "A tour d'anches, Op. 97," and "Chants alizés, Op. 125." Each suite offers a blend of moods and tempos, from the lively and animated to the slow and contemplative. Schmitt's compositions are known for their intricate textures and harmonies, and this album is no exception.

"Lied et Scherzo, Op. 54," composed in 1910, is a standout piece that highlights Schmitt's ability to create a dialogue between different wind instruments. The "Suite en rocaille, Op. 84," is a four-movement work that evokes the rugged beauty of a rocky landscape. "A tour d'anches, Op. 97," features a nocturne and a sarabande, showcasing Schmitt's ability to blend different musical styles. Finally, "Chants alizés, Op. 125," is a suite that incorporates elements of French impressionism and offers a serene and melodic conclusion to the album.

This album is a testament to Florent Schmitt's enduring legacy as a composer and his significant contributions to the chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of Schmitt's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience.

Florent Schmitt, a captivating French composer, left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape with his unique and influential compositions. Born in the quaint town of Blâmont in 1870, Schmitt's musical journey took him to the prestigious Paris Conservatoire, where he studied under the tutelage of Massenet and Fauré. His early success was marked by winning the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1900, setting the stage for a prolific career that spanned the late 19th and 20th centuries.

Schmitt's most renowned works, "La tragédie de Salomé" and "Psaume XLVII," showcase his distinctive style and have earned him a place among the most original composers of his time, standing alongside greats like Debussy and Ravel. "La tragédie de Salomé," in particular, is a standout piece that has captivated audiences with its exotic and dramatic orchestration. Schmitt's choral works, including settings of La Fontaine's fables and liturgical music, further demonstrate his versatility and depth as a composer. For those eager to explore the rich and individualistic music of Florent Schmitt, his discography offers a compelling journey through the sounds of a truly innovative composer.