Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate compositions of Florent Schmitt with this captivating album, released on January 6, 2017, under the naïve classique label. Spanning a total of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this collection showcases Schmitt's mastery of form and expression through a diverse range of works.
The album opens with the "Sonate libre en deux parties enchaînées, Op. 68" for violin and piano, a piece that exemplifies Schmitt's ability to blend lyricism with structural innovation. The sonata's two interconnected parts, marked "Lent sans exagération" and "Animé," offer a compelling journey through contrasting emotional landscapes.
Following the sonata, the album presents the "Trois rapsodies pour deux pianos, Op. 53," a trio of rhapsodies that draw inspiration from French, Polish, and Viennese musical traditions. Each rhapsody, performed with virtuosity by Huseyin Sermet and Kun Woo Paik, is a testament to Schmitt's vivid imagination and technical prowess.
The final piece on the album is the "Quatuor Hasards, Op. 96," a work for piano and strings that explores themes of chance and spontaneity. The four movements, titled "Exorde," "Zélie au pied léger," "Demi soupir," and "Bourée bourrasque," are performed with exquisite sensitivity by Régis Pasquier, Kun Woo Paik, and Roland Pudoux.
Throughout the album, Schmitt's unique voice shines through, offering listeners a glimpse into the mind of one of the most innovative and underappreciated composers of the early 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.