Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Paul Dukas' piano compositions with "Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano." Released in 2015 under the Calliope label, this album is a comprehensive collection of Dukas' piano works, spanning a total of 1 hour and 16 minutes. The album features the talented pianist Olivier Chauzu, who brings Dukas' intricate compositions to life with remarkable skill and sensitivity.

The album opens with "Variations, interlude et final sur un thème de Rameau," a series of variations on a theme by Jean-Philippe Rameau. This piece showcases Dukas' ability to blend classical forms with innovative techniques, creating a rich and engaging musical experience. The variations range from tender and delicate to lively and rhythmic, demonstrating Dukas' versatility and mastery of the piano.

Following the Rameau variations, the album presents the "Sonate pour le piano in E-Flat Minor," a four-movement sonata that highlights Dukas' romantic and expressive style. The sonata is a journey through a range of emotions, from the moderate and expressive first movement to the lively and lighthearted third movement, and finally to the very slow and contemplative fourth movement.

The album also includes two shorter pieces, "La plainte, au loin, du faune" and "Prélude élégiaque sur le nom de Haydn," which offer a glimpse into Dukas' ability to convey deep emotion and nostalgia through his music.

"Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano" is a testament to Paul Dukas' enduring legacy as a composer and his profound impact on the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Dukas or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Paul Dukas, born in Paris in 1865, was a multifaceted French composer, critic, scholar, and teacher whose influence resonated deeply within the musical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dukas' most celebrated work, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," gained widespread recognition through its iconic appearance in Disney's "Fantasia," overshadowing his other notable compositions such as the opera "Ariane et Barbe-bleue," the "Symphony in C," and the "Piano Sonata in E-flat minor." His meticulous nature and intense self-criticism led him to destroy many of his works, leaving behind a refined and impactful musical legacy.

Dukas' educational journey began at the Paris Conservatory, where he studied under esteemed figures like Theodore Dubois, César Franck, and Ernest Guiraud. His academic prowess earned him the prestigious Prix de Rome twice, solidifying his reputation as a master of orchestration. Beyond his composing, Dukas was a prolific music critic and a dedicated educator, teaching at the Paris Conservatory and mentoring influential composers like Olivier Messiaen and Maurice Duruflé.

Dukas' compositions, deeply influenced by the likes of Beethoven, Berlioz, Franck, and Debussy, reflect his mastery of orchestration and his ability to blend various musical styles. His works, though few in number, have left an indelible mark on French music, making him a central figure in the country's musical history. Dukas' legacy endures not just through his compositions but also through his contributions as a critic and educator, shaping the musical landscape for generations to come.

Dukas: Intégrale de la musique pour piano

Album Details

Tracks

About Paul Dukas

Best vinyl LP prices!