Andre Caplet - Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite (LP)

Andre Caplet's 1995 album "Debussy-Caplet: Children's Corner Suite" is a captivating exploration of orchestral arrangements of Claude Debussy's piano compositions. Released under the Marco-Palo label, this choral genre album spans a concise yet engaging 56 minutes, featuring 11 tracks that beautifully translate Debussy's original piano works into lush orchestral pieces.

The album opens with the charming "Children's Corner" suite, arranged by Caplet himself, offering a delightful journey through whimsical pieces like "Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum," "Jimbo's Lullaby," and the iconic "Golliwogg's Cake-walk." Each track showcases Caplet's skillful orchestration, bringing Debussy's playful and imaginative piano works to life with rich, vibrant orchestrations.

Beyond the "Children's Corner" suite, the album presents other notable works, including the serene "Clair de lune" from the "Suite bergamasque" and the exotic "Pagodes" from "Estampes," also arranged by Caplet. The album concludes with the dramatic "Marche triomphale et pompiere" from the "Suite persane," adding a dynamic and triumphant finale to the collection.

Performed by esteemed orchestras such as the Leif Segerstam and the Rheinland-Pfalz State Philharmonic Orchestra, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Debussy's music and Caplet's masterful arrangements. Whether you're a longtime fan of Debussy's compositions or new to his work, this album offers a fresh and enchanting perspective on some of his most beloved pieces.