Françaix: Paris, à nous deux! & Déploration de Tonton

Immerse yourself in the sophisticated world of Jean Françaix with this captivating 1957 release, "Françaix: Paris, à nous deux! & Déploration de Tonton." This album is a testament to Françaix's mastery of neoclassical and chamber music, offering a rich and intellectually stimulating listening experience.

The album features two distinct works: the opéra bouffe "Paris, à nous deux! ou le Nouveau Rastignac" and the cantate "Déploration de Tonton, chien fidèle." The former is a witty and stylized exploration of Parisian life, filled with clever dialogues and progressive musical ideas. It's a delightful blend of humor and sophistication, showcasing Françaix's unique compositional voice.

"Déploration de Tonton, chien fidèle," on the other hand, is a poignant and introspective piece for soprano and strings. It offers a stark contrast to the opéra bouffe, demonstrating Françaix's versatility and depth as a composer.

The album is performed by an ensemble of talented musicians, including the Quatuor de saxophones Marcel-Mule, Geneviève Touraine, and Michel Sénéchal, among others. Their performances bring Françaix's compositions to life, highlighting the intricate details and nuances of his music.

With a duration of just over 33 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Françaix's musical world. It's a perfect introduction to his work for those new to his music, and a delightful addition to the collection of those already familiar with his compositions.

Released under the BNF Collection label, this mono version of the album offers a glimpse into the past, providing a historical context to Françaix's work. It's a fascinating listen for anyone interested in the evolution of neoclassical and chamber music.