The Film Music of Georges Auric

Immerse yourself in the rich cinematic world of Georges Auric with this captivating collection of film scores. Released in 1999 on the Chandos label, "The Film Music of Georges Auric" is a meticulously curated compilation that showcases the versatility and brilliance of one of the most influential composers in film history. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album features 28 tracks that encapsulate the essence of Auric's work, from the dramatic to the whimsical.

The album opens with the "Caesar and Cleopatra Suite," a trio of pieces that immediately draw the listener into the grandeur of Auric's compositions. The "Titfield Thunderbolt Suite" follows, offering a lighter, more playful tone that highlights Auric's ability to adapt his style to different genres and moods. The "Dead of the Night Suite" brings a sense of suspense and intrigue, while the "Passport to Pimlico Suite" is a lively and energetic journey through a whimsical narrative.

Auric's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions is evident in the "The Innocents Suite," which transitions from a hauntingly beautiful opening to a tense and dramatic climax. The "Lavender Hill Mob Suite" is a delightful romp through a heist narrative, complete with a thrilling robbery sequence and a jaunty finale. The "Moulin Rouge Suite" offers a taste of the glamour and excitement of the famous cabaret, with a polka, waltz, and quadrille that are sure to get your toes tapping.

The "Father Brown Suite" brings a sense of mystery and intrigue, with a robbery and a cross-country journey that keep the listener on the edge of their seat. The "It Always Rains on Sunday Suite" is a poignant and melancholic exploration of love and loss, while the "Hue and Cry: Overture" is a thrilling and energetic opening to the album's final suite.

Throughout the album, the BBC Philharmonic, conducted by Rumon Gamba, brings Auric's scores to life with their impeccable musicianship and attention to detail. The result is a collection that is as engaging and entertaining as it is musically sophisticated, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of film music and the genius of Georges Auric.