Poulenc: La Voix humaine, Fiançailles pour rire

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Francis Poulenc with this exquisite album, released on September 22, 2023, by the esteemed label Aparté. This 59-minute collection showcases Poulenc's mastery of neoclassical and classical genres, offering a profound and intimate listening experience.

The album features two of Poulenc's most renowned works: "La Voix humaine" and "Fiançailles pour rire," both beautifully transcribed for soprano and orchestra by Frédéric Chaslin. "La Voix humaine," composed in 1958, is a poignant one-act opera based on a monodrama by Poulenc's friend Jean Cocteau. This tragic tale of love and loss is brought to life through a series of evocative phone conversations, showcasing the depth and range of the human voice.

"Fiançailles pour rire," on the other hand, presents a lighter, more whimsical side of Poulenc's compositional genius. This six-movement work, originally written for voice and piano, is reimagined here in a lush orchestral setting, highlighting Poulenc's unique blend of humor, lyricism, and musical innovation.

The album is performed by the talented soprano Julie Cherrier-Hoffmann, accompanied by the Orchestra del Teatro La Fenice di Venezia, under the baton of Frédéric Chaslin. Their combined artistry brings Poulenc's music to life with stunning clarity and expressiveness, making this album an essential addition to any classical music lover's collection.

Francis Poulenc, born in Paris in 1899, was a prolific French composer and pianist whose music is celebrated for its wit, clarity, and tuneful melodies. A member of the influential group Les Six, Poulenc's compositions span a wide range of genres, including songs, piano works, operas, and orchestral pieces. His early success came without formal composition lessons, showcasing his innate talent and unique voice. Poulenc's catalog includes iconic works such as the piano suite "Trois mouvements perpétuels," the ballet "Les biches," and the opera "Dialogues des Carmélites." His songs are particularly renowned, blending eclectic musical influences with his personal spirituality and a deep aptitude for textual application. Poulenc's legacy endures as one of the most significant contributors to French music in the 20th century, known for his perfection of melody and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience in his compositions.