Immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse world of Jean Françaix's "Françaix: Music for Solo Piano, Duo & Duet," a captivating collection of neoclassical and chamber music released on April 1, 2012, by Nimbus Records. This album is a testament to Françaix's unique ability to blend the bouncy rhythms and diatonic melodies of French folk music with the harmonic asperity and playful vulgarity of the boulevard, creating a sound that is both refined and accessible.
Spanning a total of 68 tracks across three CDs, this compilation offers over three hours of stylish and colorful piano music. The first CD is dedicated entirely to solo piano works, performed with exquisite skill by Martin Jones. The subsequent CDs feature duets and duo performances, with Richard McMahon and Adrian Farmer joining Jones to bring Françaix's compositions to life.
The album showcases a wide range of Françaix's works, from the whimsical "Cinq portraits de jeunes filles" and the evocative "Eloge de la danse" to the intricate "Sonate pour piano" and the playful "Huit danses exotiques pour deux pianos." Each piece is a masterclass in composition, demonstrating Françaix's ability to create music that is both technically demanding and deeply expressive.
Martin Jones and his accompanists deliver consistently fluent, polished, and rhythmically precise interpretations, bringing out the full depth and nuance of Françaix's music. Their performances are a testament to their deep understanding and appreciation of Françaix's unique style, making this album a must-listen for anyone interested in neoclassical and chamber music.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Françaix: Music for Solo Piano, Duo & Duet" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. So, sit back, press play, and let the enchanting melodies and rhythms of Jean Françaix transport you to a world of musical delight.
(C) 2012 Wyastone Estate Limited
About Jean Françaix
Jean Françaix, born in Le Mans, France, in 1912, was a prolific composer, pianist, and orchestrator whose vibrant neoclassical style continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Encouraged by his musically inclined family—his father directed the Le Mans Conservatory, and his mother taught singing—Françaix began composing at a remarkably young age, publishing his first piano piece at just nine years old. His extensive oeuvre spans symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and vocal works, all marked by elegance, clarity, and a distinctive Gallic charm. Françaix's music is celebrated for its wit, catchy tunes, and multi-leveled humor, making it a delight for both casual listeners and classical connoisseurs. Throughout his career, he received numerous prestigious awards, including the Grand Prix du Disque and the Grand Prix SACEM de la musique symphonique. Françaix's legacy endures through his extensive discography and the enduring popularity of his compositions, which continue to be performed and enjoyed in concert halls and on recordings.
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