Schmitt: Works for Female Voices

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Florent Schmitt's "Works for Female Voices," a captivating collection of choral and vocal compositions that showcase the composer's unique musical language and rich harmonic palette. Released on February 4, 2014, by the esteemed label Timpani, this album spans a diverse range of pieces, from the playful and whimsical to the deeply evocative and introspective.

Florent Schmitt, a prominent French composer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was known for his innovative approach to harmony and his ability to create vivid musical imagery. In this album, Schmitt's works are performed by the Calliope Women's Chorus, with soloists Marie-Cécile Milan and Régine Théodoresco, who bring a fresh and dynamic interpretation to these pieces.

The album features a total of 25 tracks, divided into several opuses, each offering a distinct musical experience. The "6 Choeurs, Op. 81" set opens the album with a lively and engaging series of choral pieces, while "En bonnes voix, Op. 91" presents a collection of charming and melodious songs. The "3 Trios, Op. 99" showcases Schmitt's skill in writing for smaller ensembles, with intricate and expressive works for soprano, mezzo, and contralto voices. The album concludes with the evocative "5 Refrains, Op. 132," a set of songs that highlights Schmitt's ability to convey deep emotion and poetic imagery through music.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Florent Schmitt's works for female voices, providing a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you are a fan of choral music, a scholar of French composition, or simply a lover of beautiful and engaging music, "Works for Female Voices" is sure to captivate and inspire.

4 februari 2014

2014 Timpani

About Florent Schmitt

Florent Schmitt, a captivating French composer, left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape with his unique and influential compositions. Born in the quaint town of Blâmont in 1870, Schmitt's musical journey took him to the prestigious Paris Conservatoire, where he studied under the tutelage of Massenet and Fauré. His early success was marked by winning the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1900, setting the stage for a prolific career that spanned the late 19th and 20th centuries.

Schmitt's most renowned works, "La tragédie de Salomé" and "Psaume XLVII," showcase his distinctive style and have earned him a place among the most original composers of his time, standing alongside greats like Debussy and Ravel. "La tragédie de Salomé," in particular, is a standout piece that has captivated audiences with its exotic and dramatic orchestration. Schmitt's choral works, including settings of La Fontaine's fables and liturgical music, further demonstrate his versatility and depth as a composer. For those eager to explore the rich and individualistic music of Florent Schmitt, his discography offers a compelling journey through the sounds of a truly innovative composer.