Koechlin: Le Saxophone Lumineux

Dive into the enchanting world of Charles Koechlin's chamber music with "Le Saxophone Lumineux," a captivating album that showcases the composer's mastery of the saxophone and piano duo. Released on March 1, 2002, by Chandos, this album is a treasure trove of musical elegance and technical brilliance, spanning a total of 72 minutes.

The album features the complete works for saxophone and piano by Charles Koechlin, performed by the renowned Federico Mondelci on saxophone and Kathryn Stott on piano. The centerpiece of the album is the 15 Études for Saxophone and Piano, Op. 188, each offering a unique exploration of saxophone technique and expression. From rapid passages to sustained tones, these études demonstrate Koechlin's deep understanding of the instrument's capabilities.

In addition to the études, the album includes a selection of pieces from Op. 180, providing a diverse range of moods and styles. The performances were recorded in April 2001 at the acoustically superb Potton Hall in Suffolk, ensuring a rich and detailed sound quality that brings Koechlin's music to life.

Whether you're a fan of chamber music, a saxophone enthusiast, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted compositions, "Le Saxophone Lumineux" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is a testament to Koechlin's enduring legacy and the enduring appeal of his music.

Charles Koechlin was a French composer, teacher, and musicologist who navigated the musical currents of the late 19th and mid-20th centuries with a deeply personal and independent style. Born in Paris in 1867, Koechlin's eclectic compositions blend Romanticism, Impressionism, and Orientalism, reflecting his diverse influences and passions. A pupil of Gabriel Fauré, Koechlin's music is known for its complexity and innovation, often featuring bitonality and near-atonality. His works span a wide range of genres, including symphonies, operas, songs, and chamber music. Among his notable compositions are "Les Heures persanes," a set of piano pieces inspired by Pierre Loti's novel "Vers Ispahan," and "The Seven Stars Symphony," a seven-movement symphony dedicated to popular film stars of the 1930s. Koechlin's extensive body of work, though not widely published during his lifetime, has left a lasting impact on French music. His influence extended beyond his compositions to his teaching, as he mentored many younger composers, including members of the influential group "Les Six." Koechlin's passion for music was matched by his enthusiasm for various other interests, from medieval music and the works of Rudyard Kipling to film stars and outdoor pursuits. His legacy endures as a pioneer of polytonality and a master orchestrator, celebrated for his unique voice in the world of classical music.