Claude Debussy, Albert Roussel, and Paul Dukas were three prominent French composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, each with their unique style and approach to music. This new release from Onyx Classics, performed by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Domingo Hindoyan, showcases some of their most celebrated works.
Debussy’s “Jeux” and “Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune” are prime examples of his impressionistic style. “Jeux,” a ballet score composed for Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, is a complex and subtle work that explores the interplay between three dancers. Hindoyan and the RLPO capture the piece’s fluid, ever-changing nature with grace and precision. “Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune,” inspired by Mallarmé’s poem, is a languid and sensual work that showcases Debussy’s mastery of orchestral color. The performance here is evocative and atmospheric, with the flute solo beautifully rendered.
Roussel’s “Bacchus et Ariane” is a lesser-known ballet score that deserves more attention. The second act, presented here, is a vibrant and energetic depiction of the love story between Bacchus and Ariadne. Hindoyan brings out the score’s rhythmic vitality and lush harmonies, demonstrating Roussel’s unique blend of impressionism and neo-classicism.
Dukas’ “La Péri” is a poème dansé (danced poem) that tells the story of a Persian prince seeking immortality. The music is exotic and colorful, with a memorable fanfare that bookends the piece. The RLPO’s performance is committed and engaging, capturing the work’s dramatic arc and rich orchestral palette.
Throughout the recording, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra plays with precision, clarity, and enthusiasm. Hindoyan’s direction is assured and insightful, bringing out the best in each work. The sound quality is excellent, with a wide dynamic range and a clear, well-balanced soundstage.
In summary, this Onyx release is a superb collection of French orchestral works, showcasing the unique voices of Debussy, Roussel, and Dukas. The performances by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under Domingo Hindoyan are top-notch, making this a highly recommended recording for fans of early 20th-century French music.
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