Milhaud-Service sacré pour le samedi matin

Album Description

Dive into the sacred and serene world of Darius Milhaud's "Service sacré pour le samedi matin," a neoclassical masterpiece that stands as a testament to the composer's profound musical insight. Released in 2004 under the prestigious Universal Music Division Decca Records France, this album is a meticulously crafted chamber music experience that spans nearly an hour, offering a rich and immersive journey through Milhaud's unique compositional style.

Comprising twenty tracks, "Service sacré pour le samedi matin" is a sacred service for Saturday morning, divided into four parts, each exploring different facets of spiritual and musical expression. The album features the esteemed Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, conducted by Heinz Rehfuss, alongside the talented Yvonne Gouverne and the Chœurs de la Radio Française, ensuring a performance of unparalleled depth and precision.

Milhaud, known for his innovative approach to composition, weaves together traditional Jewish liturgical elements with his signature neoclassical style, creating a harmonious blend of the sacred and the contemporary. Each track, from the opening "Ma tovou" to the closing "Benediction-Yivareha," is a testament to Milhaud's ability to evoke a sense of reverence and introspection.

This album is not just a collection of tracks but a cohesive musical narrative that invites the listener to experience the beauty and complexity of Milhaud's vision. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious explorer of neoclassical chamber music, "Service sacré pour le samedi matin" promises an enriching and enlightening musical journey.

January 1, 2004

℗ 2004 Decca Records France

About Darius Milhaud

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.