Poulenc: Le bal masqué/Chamber Works

Album Description

Dive into the rich and diverse musical landscape of Francis Poulenc with his 1996 album, "Poulenc: Le bal masqué/Chamber Works." This collection, released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, showcases Poulenc's mastery of neoclassical and classical genres, offering a comprehensive journey through his vocal and chamber works.

The album features a stunning array of 41 tracks, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It includes iconic pieces such as "Le Bal Masqué," a captivating cantata for voice and chamber orchestra, and a variety of other works that highlight Poulenc's unique compositional style. Notable tracks include "Rapsodie nègre," "Cocardes," and "Le Gendarme Incompris," a comedic one-act opera mixed with songs.

Poulenc's deep affection for "Le Bal Masqué" is evident, as he once stated, "I am sure that people do not really like my music if they do not understand it. It is a hundred per cent Poulenc." This album is a testament to his artistic integrity and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply resonant.

The album features performances by renowned artists such as Pascal Rogé, Charles Dutoit, Michel Piquemal, and La Camerata De Bourgogne, ensuring a high standard of musical excellence. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Poulenc's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

1 januari 1996

℗ 1996 Decca Music Group Limited

About Francis Poulenc

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.