Dive into the enchanting world of Darius Milhaud's "Songs," a captivating collection of vocal works that showcase the composer's unique neoclassical style and profound musicality. Released on April 1, 2011, by Music and Arts Programs of America, this album is a treasure trove of chamber music that beautifully highlights Milhaud's ability to blend various musical influences into a cohesive and engaging whole.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, the album features a diverse range of pieces, including settings of poems by Jean Cocteau, traditional Hebrew folk songs, and works inspired by the vibrant street life of Provence. Milhaud's mastery of form and his distinctive harmonic language are evident throughout, as he weaves together intricate melodies and rich textures that captivate the listener's ear.
The album opens with "6 Chansons de théâtre," a set of theatrical songs that display Milhaud's knack for storytelling and his ability to create vivid musical scenes. Following this, the listener is treated to a variety of works that explore different moods and themes, from the tender intimacy of "2 Poèmes d'amour" to the lively energy of "Chansons bas."
Throughout the album, Milhaud's collaboration with various poets and his deep appreciation for the spoken word are evident. His settings of texts by Jean Cocteau, Leo Latil, and others are marked by a sensitivity to language and a keen ear for the nuances of the human voice. The album also features several works that draw on Milhaud's Jewish heritage, including the evocative "6 Chants populaires hébraïques," which showcase the composer's ability to blend traditional Jewish melodies with his own distinctive musical voice.
"Songs" is a testament to Darius Milhaud's enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential composers of the 20th century. Whether you are a longtime fan of his music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight and inspire.
2011 Music and Arts Programs of America2011 Music and Arts Programs of America
Tracks
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 1, La Bohemienne la main m'a prisDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 2, Un petit pas, deux petit pasDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 3, Je suis dans le filetDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 4, Chacun son tour, les animauxDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 5, Mes amis les cygnesDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chansons de theatre, Op. 151b: No. 6, Blancs sont les jours d'étéDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
2 Poemes d'amour, Op. 30: No. 1, Love, my heart longsDarius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
2 Poemes d'amour, Op. 30: No. 2, Peace, my heart!Darius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
2 Chansons, Op. 128d: No. 1, Chanson de l'aveugle (Blindman's Song)Darius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
2 Chansons, Op. 128d: No. 2, La Chanson du printemps (Song of Springtime)Darius Milhaud, Sara Ganz, Belle Bulwinkle
6 Chants populaires hebraiques, Op. 86: No. 1, La Separation (Separation)Darius Milhaud, Donna Petersen, Julie Steinberg
6 Chants populaires hebraiques, Op. 86: No. 2, Le Chant du veilleur (the Song of the Nightwatchman)Darius Milhaud, Donna Petersen, Julie Steinberg
6 Chants populaires hebraiques, Op. 86: No. 3, Chant de delivrance (Song of Deliverance)Darius Milhaud, Donna Petersen, Julie Steinberg
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