Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Charles Koechlin's "The Seven Stars' Symphony, Op. 132 & Vers la voûte étoilée, Op. 129," a captivating chamber music album released on June 3, 2022, under the CapriccioNR label. This 56-minute journey is brought to life by the Sinfonieorchester Basel, conducted by the talented Ariane Matiakh.
Koechlin, often hailed as an "Aural Alchemist," is a composer whose work is a discovery waiting to be unveiled. The album opens with "The Seven Stars' Symphony, Op. 132," a seven-movement suite each dedicated to a different silent film star: Douglas Fairbanks, Lilian Harvey, Greta Garbo, Clara Bow, Merlène Dietrich, Emil Jannings, and Charlie Chaplin. Each movement is a musical portrait, capturing the essence of these iconic figures.
The album concludes with "Vers la voûte étoilée, Op. 129," a rich tone poem that evokes the vastness of the starry vault. This piece, with its Debussy-esque qualities, is a testament to Koechlin's ability to paint vivid musical landscapes.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a unique opportunity to explore the criminally underrated world of Charles Koechlin. It's a collection that promises to delight, intrigue, and inspire, showcasing the brilliance of both the composer and the performing artists.
Vinylscout