Poulenc: Les Animaux modèles - Saint-Saëns: Le Carnaval des animaux - Aldo Ciccolini

Immerse yourself in the whimsical and enchanting world of "Poulenc: Les Animaux modèles - Saint-Saëns: Le Carnaval des animaux," a captivating album featuring the virtuoso piano skills of Aldo Ciccolini. Released in 1967 under the Warner Classics label, this timeless collection showcases the brilliance of two master composers, Camille Saint-Saëns and Francis Poulenc, in a delightful exploration of the animal kingdom.

The album opens with Saint-Saëns' iconic "Le Carnaval des animaux," a suite of fourteen charming movements that bring to life a menagerie of creatures, from the majestic lion in the "Marche royale" to the graceful swan in the famous "Le cygne." Each piece is a testament to Saint-Saëns' genius, with Ciccolini's masterful playing bringing out the playful and poignant nuances of the music.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Poulenc's "Suite des Animaux modèles," a whimsical and witty suite that continues the animal theme with a uniquely French flair. Poulenc's music is known for its wit and charm, and Ciccolini's performance captures the essence of each character, from the amorous lion in "Le lion amoureux" to the humorous "Le combat des deux coqs."

Accompanied by the Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire under the baton of Georges Prêtre, and with the additional piano talents of Alexis Weissenberg, this album is a delightful journey through the animal kingdom as seen through the eyes of two of France's most beloved composers. The album's duration of 42 minutes makes it an ideal choice for a quick escape into the world of classical music, whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a casual listener.

Aldo Ciccolini, the renowned Italian-born French pianist, captivated audiences worldwide with his distinctive pearly, translucent tone and remarkable technical agility. Born in Naples in 1925, Ciccolini began his piano journey at a tender age and quickly showcased his prodigious talent, gaining entrance to prestigious institutions at just nine years old. Throughout his illustrious career, Ciccolini became particularly celebrated for his interpretations of French music, although his repertoire spanned a wide range of classical piano works, from Tchaikovsky and Liszt to Schubert and Debussy. His recordings, such as the comprehensive collection of Erik Satie's piano works, remain cherished by classical music enthusiasts. Ciccolini's legacy as a distinguished pianist and dedicated pedagogue continues to inspire, reflecting his deep love and serious commitment to the art of piano playing.