L'Arlesienne Suites

Emmanuel Chabrier's "L'Arlesienne Suites," released in 2000 under the Maestoso label, is a captivating journey through the composer's most celebrated works. This album, spanning 46 minutes, features the renowned "España Rapsodie" and the complete "L'Arlesienne Suites No. 1 and No. 2," showcasing Chabrier's distinctive blend of French charm and Spanish flair.

The album opens with the vibrant "España Rapsodie," a piece that encapsulates the lively spirit of Spanish music. Following this, the "L'Arlesienne Suite No. 1" unfolds with a graceful "Prelude," a delicate "Minuetto," and a serene "Adagietto carillon." The suite continues with the pastoral beauty of "Pastorale," the introspective "Intermezzo," and the lively "Minuetto farandole." The album concludes with the triumphant "Marche Joyeuse," leaving the listener with a sense of exhilaration.

Performed by esteemed ensembles such as the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, this album is a testament to Chabrier's enduring appeal. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Chabrier's music or a newcomer to his works, "L'Arlesienne Suites" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The meticulous arrangements and the skillful performances bring Chabrier's compositions to life, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music collection.

Emmanuel Chabrier, born Alexis-Emmanuel Chabrier, was a French Romantic composer and pianist whose musical journey was as vibrant and captivating as the Parisian scene of the 1880s. Despite his bourgeois family's disapproval of a musical career, Chabrier's passion for music burned brightly from a young age, with his first compositions emerging when he was just eight years old. He initially pursued a career in law and worked as a civil servant, but his true calling was music. From 1880 onwards, he dedicated himself fully to composing, leaving behind a rich legacy of works that span opera, operetta, piano, orchestral music, and songs. Chabrier's music is renowned for its verve and wit, reflecting the lively spirit of the Parisian artistic scene. His orchestral works, such as "España," are particularly celebrated, showcasing his unique talent and enduring influence. Born in Ambert, in the Auvergne region of central France, Chabrier's musical genius was nurtured from a young age, ultimately leading him to become one of France's most beloved composers.