Britten: Les Illuminations, Op. 18 - Serenade, Op. 31

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Benjamin Britten with this exquisite collection of his choral and vocal works. Released on November 1, 2013, under the Brilliant Classics label, this album showcases Britten's mastery of composition through two of his most renowned pieces: "Les Illuminations, Op. 18" and "Serenade, Op. 31."

"Les Illuminations" is a cycle of settings of poems by Arthur Rimbaud, written when Britten was just 19 years old. The work is a vivid exploration of youthful passion and imagination, with each of the ten movements painting a distinct and evocative picture. From the triumphant "Fanfare" to the haunting "Départ," Britten's music brings Rimbaud's poetry to life with remarkable sensitivity and skill.

The second half of the album is devoted to the "Serenade, Op. 31," a work that Britten composed for tenor, horn, and strings. This seven-movement piece is a deeply personal exploration of Britten's own experiences and emotions, with each movement drawing on a different literary or musical source. The "Prologue" and "Epilogue" frame the work, while the central movements include a "Pastoral," a "Nocturne," and a "Dirge," each offering a different perspective on the human condition.

With a total runtime of just under 46 minutes, this album is a compact yet powerful introduction to Britten's music. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you. So sit back, relax, and let the music of Benjamin Britten transport you to another world.