Darius Milhaud

Dive into the rich and diverse musical world of Darius Milhaud with this captivating album, released on Sony Classical in 2013. Spanning a generous 2 hours and 6 minutes, this collection showcases Milhaud's mastery of neoclassical and chamber music genres, offering a comprehensive journey through his prolific career.

The album opens with the evocative "La création du monde, Op. 81," a five-movement orchestral suite that draws inspiration from African-American jazz, reflecting Milhaud's innovative blend of styles. The suite is followed by a series of chamber works, including the charming "Suite Pour Violon, Clarinette et Piano" and the dynamic "Sonate Pour Deux Violons et Piano," which highlight Milhaud's ability to create intricate and engaging compositions for smaller ensembles.

A standout feature of this album is the "Saudades Do Brazil" suite, a vibrant and colorful musical postcard from Milhaud's visit to Brazil. Each movement is named after a different neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, offering a lively and evocative snapshot of the city's diverse musical landscape.

The album also includes several concertos, showcasing Milhaud's talent for writing for solo instruments. The "Concerto pour Clarinette et Orchestre, Op. 230" and the "Concerto pour Batterie et Petit Orchestre, Op. 109" are both notable examples, demonstrating Milhaud's ability to create compelling and dramatic works for soloists and orchestra.

Finally, the album concludes with "Le Carnaval d'Aix," a whimsical and playful suite for piano and orchestra. Inspired by the Carnival of Nice, this work is a delightful exploration of the festive and colorful world of the carnival, featuring a series of vivid and evocative character pieces.

Throughout the album, Milhaud's unique voice and innovative approach to composition shine through, making this a compelling and enjoyable listen for fans of classical music. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Milhaud's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to provide hours of listening pleasure.