Poulenc: Les Animaux modèles - Saint-Saëns: Le Carnaval des animaux

Immerse yourself in the whimsical and enchanting world of "Poulenc: Les Animaux modèles - Saint-Saëns: Le Carnaval des animaux," a captivating album featuring the virtuoso piano skills of Aldo Ciccolini. Released in 1967 under the Warner Classics label, this timeless collection showcases the brilliance of two master composers, Camille Saint-Saëns and Francis Poulenc, in a delightful exploration of the animal kingdom.

The album opens with Saint-Saëns' iconic "Le Carnaval des animaux," a suite of fourteen charming movements that bring to life a menagerie of creatures, from the majestic lion in the "Marche royale" to the graceful swan in the famous "Le cygne." Each piece is a testament to Saint-Saëns' genius, with Ciccolini's masterful playing bringing out the playful and poignant nuances of the music.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Poulenc's "Suite des Animaux modèles," a whimsical and witty suite that continues the animal theme with a uniquely French flair. Poulenc's music is known for its wit and charm, and Ciccolini's performance captures the essence of each character, from the amorous lion in "Le lion amoureux" to the humorous "Le combat des deux coqs."

Accompanied by the Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire under the baton of Georges Prêtre, and with the additional piano talents of Alexis Weissenberg, this album is a delightful journey through the animal kingdom as seen through the eyes of two of France's most beloved composers. The album's duration of 42 minutes makes it an ideal choice for a quick escape into the world of classical music, whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a casual listener.