Sept Chansons, Naissance de Venus, Eight Preludes for Piano, Trois Chansons
PHCD139 | Phoenix CD
| Name | Credit | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Francis Poulenc | Composer |
 |
Claude Debussy | Composer |
 |
Darius Milhaud | Composer |
 |
Olivier Messiaen | Composer |
 |
Maurice Ravel | Composer |
 |
Modern Madrigal Quartet | Vocalists |
|
George Bennette | Piano |
PHCD139
Francis Poulenc Sept Chansons
Darius Milhaud Naissance De Venus
Claude Debussy Trois Chansons
Maurice Ravel Trois Chansons
Olivier Messiaen Preludes (8) for Piano
This compilation disc features first rate performances of 5 of France’s most important composers of the century. A capella vocal ensemble “The Modern Madrigal Singers”, perform some of the lesser known works by these masters. These vocal works are joined by a bravura performance of the Messiaen “Eight Piano Preludes” by George Bennette.
French Music of the 20th Century brings together four defining voices of modern French composition. Francis Poulenc’s Sept Chansons blend clarity and wit; Darius Milhaud’s Naissance de Vénus offers luminous harmonic color; Olivier Messiaen’s Eight Preludes reveal his early rhythmic and harmonic imagination; and Maurice Ravel’s Trois Chansons stand as one of the great choral achievements of the century. Performed by the Modern Madrigal Quartet with pianist George Bennette, this Phoenix USA recording (PHCD139) presents a vivid portrait of French musical innovation.