Marguerite

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of "Marguerite," a captivating musical journey composed by the legendary Michel Legrand. This album, released on August 31, 2008, under First Night Records, is a testament to Legrand's mastery of French jazz, offering a rich and immersive experience that spans over an hour and fourteen minutes. Inspired by Alexandre Dumas' "La Dame aux camélias" and set against the backdrop of German-occupied Paris, "Marguerite" tells the poignant tale of a 40-year-old ex-singer and her forbidden affair with a young musician entangled in the French Resistance. The narrative unfolds through 26 beautifully crafted tracks, each one a gem that showcases Legrand's exceptional talent for weaving music and storytelling. From the haunting melodies of "Come One, Come All" to the stirring reprise of "Day by Day, Pt. 4," every song is a masterclass in musical theater. The album features a stellar cast and orchestrations by Michel Legrand himself, along with contributions from Seann Alderking, ensuring a performance that is as powerful as it is memorable. "Marguerite" is not just an album; it's an experience that transports you to a different time and place, where music and history intertwine in a way that only Michel Legrand can achieve.

August 31, 2008

About Michel Legrand

Michel Legrand, the legendary French composer, pianist, and arranger, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his prolific and diverse body of work. Born in the Paris suburb of Bécon-les-Bruyères, Legrand's career spanned over half a century, during which he composed over 200 film and television scores, as well as numerous enduring songs. His collaboration with French New Wave director Jacques Demy on films like "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" and "The Young Girls of Rochefort" earned him international acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations.

Legrand's signature jazz-infused compositions have enchanted audiences worldwide, with his most famous work, "The Windmills of Your Mind" from "The Thomas Crown Affair," winning him his first Oscar. His musical genius was further recognized with additional Oscars for "Summer of '42" and "Yentl." Beyond his film scores, Legrand's contributions to theatre, ballet, and opera solidified his status as one of the most important names in contemporary music. His legacy continues to inspire, making him a true icon in the realm of French jazz and beyond.