The Sorcerers's Apprentice / Semiramide: Overture / La Traviata / Siegfried / Semiramide: Overture

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with Paul Dukas' captivating album, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice / Semiramide: Overture / La Traviata / Siegfried / Semiramide: Overture." Released on January 1, 2000, under the Maestoso label, this 44-minute masterpiece is a symphonic journey through some of the most iconic and beloved pieces in the classical repertoire.

Kick off your journey with "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," Dukas' symphonic poem that brings to life the mischievous antics of a young apprentice and his magical misadventures. Then, let the dramatic and powerful overture from Gioachino Rossini's "Semiramide" transport you to the ancient world of Assyria. Giuseppe Verdi's "La Traviata" follows, with its poignant Prelude to Act I and the stirring Prelude to Act III, offering a glimpse into the tragic love story of Violetta and Alfredo. Finally, Richard Wagner's "Siegfried Idyll" provides a serene and lyrical conclusion to this extraordinary collection.

Paul Dukas, a French composer and scholar, was known for his meticulous craftsmanship and his ability to blend various musical styles. His works, including "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," have become staples of the classical music canon, admired for their technical brilliance and vivid storytelling. This album showcases Dukas' unique ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through his music, making it a must-listen for both classical enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

So, whether you're a seasoned classical aficionado or simply looking to explore the rich and diverse world of orchestral music, Paul Dukas' "The Sorcerer's Apprentice / Semiramide: Overture / La Traviata / Siegfried / Semiramide: Overture" is sure to delight and inspire.

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.