César Franck à Sainte-Clotilde

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant tones of César Franck's masterful compositions with "César Franck à Sainte-Clotilde." This captivating album, performed by the esteemed Jean Langlais, offers a profound exploration of Franck's chamber music, recorded in the acoustically splendid setting of the Basilica of Sainte-Clotilde in Paris. Released in 2010 by Arion, this collection spans a generous 2 hours and 41 minutes, featuring 12 intricate and evocative pieces.

The album opens with the luminous "Fantaisie en ut majeur, Op. 16," followed by the dramatic "Grande Pièce symphonique en fa dièse mineur, Op. 17." Each track showcases Franck's distinctive style, blending romantic expressiveness with contrapuntal complexity. Highlights include the introspective "Prélude, fugue & variation, Op. 18," the serene "Pastorale en mi majeur, Op. 19," and the solemn "Prière, Op. 20."

Jean Langlais's virtuoso performance brings a nuanced depth to Franck's works, making this album a treasure trove for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're drawn to the grandeur of Franck's symphonic pieces or the delicate intricacies of his chorales, "César Franck à Sainte-Clotilde" promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.

César Franck, born in Liège, Belgium, was a prominent figure in the Romantic era, renowned for his emotive compositions that significantly shaped French music. As a composer, pianist, organist, and dedicated music teacher, Franck's life paralleled the major musical developments of the 19th century. He spent most of his adult life in Paris, where he served as the organist at Sainte-Clotilde from 1858 until his passing in 1890. Franck's works, though not as prolific as some of his contemporaries, are deeply expressive and technically impressive. His Symphony in D minor is particularly celebrated, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with structural ingenuity. Despite being overshadowed by the likes of Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart, Franck's contributions to chamber music and orchestral works have earned him a respected place in musical history.

Album Details

Tracks

About César Franck

Best vinyl LP prices!