Tansman: Songs

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alexandre Tansman's vocal compositions with the album "Tansman: Songs." Released on September 2, 2022, under the Acte Préalable label, this collection showcases Tansman's diverse musical talents and his ability to blend various influences into a cohesive and captivating whole.

Born in Poland but spending most of his career abroad, including a significant period in Hollywood, Tansman's music reflects a rich tapestry of cultural and stylistic elements. This album is a testament to his versatility, featuring a selection of songs that span different moods and themes.

The album opens with "Huit mélodies japonaises Kaï-Kaï," a cycle of eight songs inspired by Japanese poetry and melodies. Each track offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western musical traditions, showcasing Tansman's ability to create a fusion of styles that is both innovative and deeply expressive.

Following this, the album presents "Cinq mélodies pour chant et piano," a set of five songs that explore a range of emotions and musical textures. From the introspective "Dans le secret de mon âme" to the lively "Chats de gouttière," these songs demonstrate Tansman's skill in crafting melodies that are both memorable and evocative.

The album continues with "Six mélodies pour chant et piano, extraites de Poems for Music," a collection of songs based on poems by various authors. These tracks showcase Tansman's ability to set text to music in a way that enhances and illuminates the original poetry.

The final section of the album features "Quatre Sonnets de Shakespeare pour chant et piano," a set of songs based on sonnets by William Shakespeare. These tracks highlight Tansman's ability to capture the essence of Shakespeare's poetry in music, creating a powerful and moving listening experience.

With a total duration of 42 minutes, "Tansman: Songs" is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Alexandre Tansman's vocal compositions. Whether you are a longtime fan of Tansman's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight and inspire.