Frank Martin: Musique de Chambre

Dive into the rich world of chamber music with Frank Martin's "Musique de Chambre," a captivating collection released in 1990 under the Jecklin-Disco label. This album is a testament to Martin's mastery of the genre, featuring a diverse range of compositions that showcase his unique voice and technical prowess.

The album opens with the Quintette pour piano et quatuor à cordes, a four-movement work that highlights the interplay between piano and string quartet. The piece is followed by Pavane couleur du temps pour quintette à cordes, a hauntingly beautiful pavane that adds a touch of elegance to the collection.

Martin's interest in folk music is evident in the Trio sur des mélodies populaires irlandaises pour piano, violon et violoncelle. This three-movement work is based on Irish folk melodies and offers a delightful blend of traditional and classical elements.

The album concludes with the Trio à cordes, a three-movement work for string trio that demonstrates Martin's ability to create depth and complexity with a small ensemble. The final movement, "Très lent," is a particularly striking piece, with its slow, contemplative tempo and rich harmonies.

Performers on this album include Armène Stakian on violin, Pascal Desarzens on cello, and Daniel Fuchs on piano, among others. Their skillful interpretations bring Martin's compositions to life, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music lover's collection.

With a duration of just over an hour, "Musique de Chambre" is an excellent introduction to Frank Martin's work and a great way to explore the world of chamber music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to impress.