The French Touch

Dive into the enchanting world of classical music with "The French Touch," a captivating album by the renowned composer Paul Dukas. Released on January 1, 2000, this 35-minute masterpiece is a delightful journey through some of Dukas' most beloved works, performed with exquisite precision by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Charles Munch.

The album opens with the iconic "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," a symphonic poem that has become a staple in classical music, thanks in part to its famous use in Disney's "Fantasia." This piece alone is worth the price of admission, showcasing Dukas' mastery of orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical imagery.

Following this iconic piece, the album delves into the whimsical world of "Mother Goose Suite," a collection of five movements based on French fairy tales. Each movement is a gem in its own right, from the graceful "Pavan of the Sleeping Beauty" to the playful "Hop o' my Thumb" and the exotic "Laideronette, Empress of the Pagodas." The suite concludes with the enchanting "Beauty and the Beast converse" and the delightful "The Fairy Garden," leaving the listener spellbound.

"The French Touch" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it's a testament to Paul Dukas' unique compositional style, which seamlessly blends elements of Wagnerian drama, French elegance, and fairy tale whimsy. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the magical sounds of Paul Dukas transport you to a world of enchantment and wonder.

Paul Dukas, born in Paris in 1865, was a multifaceted French composer, critic, scholar, and teacher whose influence resonated deeply within the musical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dukas' most celebrated work, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," gained widespread recognition through its iconic appearance in Disney's "Fantasia," overshadowing his other notable compositions such as the opera "Ariane et Barbe-bleue," the "Symphony in C," and the "Piano Sonata in E-flat minor." His meticulous nature and intense self-criticism led him to destroy many of his works, leaving behind a refined and impactful musical legacy.

Dukas' educational journey began at the Paris Conservatory, where he studied under esteemed figures like Theodore Dubois, César Franck, and Ernest Guiraud. His academic prowess earned him the prestigious Prix de Rome twice, solidifying his reputation as a master of orchestration. Beyond his composing, Dukas was a prolific music critic and a dedicated educator, teaching at the Paris Conservatory and mentoring influential composers like Olivier Messiaen and Maurice Duruflé.

Dukas' compositions, deeply influenced by the likes of Beethoven, Berlioz, Franck, and Debussy, reflect his mastery of orchestration and his ability to blend various musical styles. His works, though few in number, have left an indelible mark on French music, making him a central figure in the country's musical history. Dukas' legacy endures not just through his compositions but also through his contributions as a critic and educator, shaping the musical landscape for generations to come.