Milhaud: Creation du Monde & Other Works

Dive into the rich tapestry of Darius Milhaud's musical genius with "Milhaud: Creation du Monde & Other Works," a captivating collection of neoclassical and chamber music pieces. This album, released in 2008 by Arabesque Recordings, offers a concise yet powerful journey through Milhaud's innovative compositions, spanning nearly 50 minutes of enchanting melodies and intricate arrangements.

The album opens with "Creation du Monde (1923)," a ballet in six continuous dance scenes that showcases Milhaud's unique blend of jazz, vaudeville, and burlesque influences, creating an aural snapshot of Europe between the wars. This iconic piece is followed by a suite of works, including "Ouverture - 1936," "Divertissement," "Jeu," and "Introduction et Final," each demonstrating Milhaud's mastery of form and harmony.

"Scaramouche," another highlight of the album, features three movements: "Vif - 1937," "Modéré," and "Brazileira," each offering a distinct mood and rhythm that showcases Milhaud's versatility as a composer. The album also includes "Trois Rag - Caprices," a set of three ragtime-inspired pieces that highlight Milhaud's playful side, and "Caramel Mou (1920)," a charming and whimsical composition that rounds out the collection.

Throughout the album, Milhaud's influence as a member of Les Six—also known as The Group of Six—is evident in his use of modern harmonies and rhythms, as well as his incorporation of non-Western musical elements. Whether you're a longtime fan of Milhaud's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies of Darius Milhaud transport you to a world of musical wonder.

Darius Milhaud, a titan of 20th-century music, was a French composer, conductor, and educator whose prolific output and innovative spirit have left an indelible mark on classical and jazz music alike. Born in Aix-en-Provence in 1892, Milhaud's compositions are renowned for their polytonality and the influence of jazz and Brazilian rhythms, creating a unique and captivating sound that continues to inspire. As a member of Les Six, a group of forward-thinking French composers, Milhaud pushed the boundaries of musical expression, embracing modernism and neoclassical styles. His extensive catalog, which includes nearly 450 works, spans operas, ballets, orchestral pieces, and chamber music, each piece a testament to his boundless creativity and technical mastery. Milhaud's legacy extends beyond his compositions; he also taught and mentored a generation of influential composers, including Burt Bacharach, Dave Brubeck, and Philip Glass, ensuring his influence would resonate for decades to come. Whether exploring his neoclassical works or his jazz-infused pieces, engaging with Milhaud's music is an adventure into the heart of 20th-century composition.