Hersant: Instants limites

Album Description

Philippe Hersant's poignant album, Hersant: Instants limites, is a deeply moving experience that showcases the composer's talent in serving the emotional texts written by prisoners in the framework of writing workshops. Released on 30 September 2013 by Aeon, this 50-minute album features 17 tracks, including the evocative 'Wanderung', 'Désert', and 'Nostalgia', as well as the multi-part 'Instants limites' suite.

The album is a culmination of a unique project, where the inmates of Clairvaux prison were given the opportunity to express themselves through music. Philippe Hersant's masterful composition brings these powerful texts to life, creating a highly emotional and thought-provoking listening experience. The album is performed by the Ensemble Vocal Aedes, conducted by Mathieu Romano, and features renowned musicians such as Régis Pasquier and Jean-Luc Menet.

With its release, Hersant: Instants limites has been made available on various platforms, including Spotify and Qobuz, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the album's haunting beauty. The physical edition of the album, available on CD, includes a booklet with photographs of prisoners taken by the inmates, adding an extra layer of depth to the overall experience.

Philippe Hersant's Hersant: Instants limites is a testament to the transformative power of music, offering a glimpse into the lives and emotions of those who created it. This classical music album is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the complexities of the human experience through sound.

September 30, 2013

2013 Aeon

About Philippe Hersant

Philippe Hersant, born in Rome in 1948, is a distinguished French composer who has made a significant mark on the contemporary classical music scene. After completing his musical studies at the prestigious Conservatoire de Paris under the tutelage of André Jolivet, Hersant has developed a unique musical language deeply rooted in memory and tonality. His works, which include choral pieces, operas, and instrumental compositions, often explore transcendent themes, inviting audiences to engage with the past while embracing the present.

Hersant's compositions, such as his choral opera 'Tristia' (2016) and the harp piece 'Bamyan', showcase his distinctive style and emotional depth. Residing and working in Paris, Hersant continues to create thought-provoking music that resonates with audiences worldwide. His extensive discography, featuring CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records, offers a rich exploration of his artistic journey and musical evolution.