Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite

Andre Caplet's 1995 album "Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite" is a captivating exploration of orchestral arrangements of Claude Debussy's piano compositions. Released under the Marco-Palo label, this choral genre album spans a concise yet engaging 56 minutes, featuring 11 tracks that beautifully translate Debussy's original piano works into lush orchestral pieces.

The album opens with the charming "Children's Corner" suite, arranged by Caplet himself, offering a delightful journey through whimsical pieces like "Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum," "Jimbo's Lullaby," and the iconic "Golliwogg's Cake-walk." Each track showcases Caplet's skillful orchestration, bringing Debussy's playful and imaginative piano works to life with rich, vibrant orchestrations.

Beyond the "Children's Corner" suite, the album presents other notable works, including the serene "Clair de lune" from the "Suite bergamasque" and the exotic "Pagodes" from "Estampes," also arranged by Caplet. The album concludes with the dramatic "Marche triomphale et pompiere" from the "Suite persane," adding a dynamic and triumphant finale to the collection.

Performed by esteemed orchestras such as the Leif Segerstam and the Rheinland-Pfalz State Philharmonic Orchestra, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Debussy's music and Caplet's masterful arrangements. Whether you're a longtime fan of Debussy's compositions or new to his work, this album offers a fresh and enchanting perspective on some of his most beloved pieces.

André Caplet, born in Le Havre, France, in 1878, was a versatile French composer and conductor whose musical journey is as captivating as the works he created. Initially renowned for his violin skills, Caplet's talent shone brightly when he won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1901 with his cantata "Myrrha." This accolade launched his career, leading him to study at the Paris Conservatoire and gain a reputation as a fine conductor.

Caplet's musical legacy is often overshadowed by his close friendship with Claude Debussy, for whom he served as an orchestrator and editor of unfinished works. However, Caplet's own compositions are a testament to his unique voice in the world of classical music. His works, such as the evocative "Conte fantastique," inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's "The Masque of the Red Death," showcase his ability to weave intricate narratives through sound.

Beyond his orchestral and choral compositions, Caplet's discography includes notable releases like "Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite" and "Caplet: Les Oeuvres pour Vents," each offering a glimpse into his rich musical imagination. Whether you're drawn to his haunting tone poems or his lyrical choral pieces, exploring André Caplet's music is an enchanting journey through the depths of human emotion and the boundless possibilities of sound.

Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite

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