Immerse yourself in the captivating world of French classical music with the Piano Duo Mona & Rica Bard's stunning album, Françaix: Concerto for 2 Pianos - Poulenc: Les animaux modèles & Concerto for 2 Pianos in D Minor. Released on April 7, 2015, under the CapriccioNR label, this album is a testament to the duo's exceptional skill and musicality, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album opens with Jean Françaix's Concerto for 2 Pianos, a lively and playful piece that showcases the duo's precision and synchronicity. The four-movement concerto is a journey through various moods and tempos, from the spirited Allegro giocoso to the fierce and powerful Allegro fieramente.
Following the Françaix concerto, the album presents Francis Poulenc's Suite for Orchestra, Les animaux modèles. This six-movement suite is a delightful exploration of various animal characters, each movement bringing a unique atmosphere and musical theme. From the calm and serene Petit jour to the passionate and animated Le lion amoureux, and the rapid and energetic L'homme entre deux âges et ses deux maîtresses, the suite is a vibrant and engaging journey.
The album concludes with Poulenc's Concerto for 2 Pianos in D Minor, a powerful and dramatic piece that highlights the duo's technical prowess and emotional depth. The three-movement concerto takes the listener through a range of emotions, from the intense and dramatic Allegro ma non troppo to the tender and lyrical Larghetto, and finally to the exhilarating and energetic Finale.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of the works of Françaix and Poulenc, performed by the talented Piano Duo Mona & Rica Bard. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this album is sure to delight and inspire.