Roger Desormiere - Nigg - Tailleferre - Auric (LP)

Dive into the rich tapestry of French classical music with "Nigg - Tailleferre - Auric," a captivating album conducted by the renowned Roger Désormière. Released in 2014, this collection is a testament to the enduring legacy of French composition, featuring works by Germaine Tailleferre, Georges Auric, and Serge Nigg.

The album opens with Tailleferre's "Cantate du Narcisse," a lyrical and dramatic cantata that showcases the composer's unique voice and her mastery of vocal and orchestral writing. The piece is performed by the Orchestre National de la RTF and the talented soprano Ginette Guillamat, who brings a sense of elegance and depth to the role of Narcisse.

Following Tailleferre's work, the album presents Auric's "Les Matelots," a charming and witty opera in five tableaux that highlights Auric's talent for creating memorable melodies and vivid musical scenes. The opera is performed with the same level of skill and artistry as the previous work, with the orchestra and soloists bringing Auric's score to life.

The album concludes with Nigg's "Trois mouvements symphoniques," a powerful and evocative symphonic work that demonstrates Nigg's command of the orchestral medium. The three movements, performed by the Orchestre National de la RTF under Désormière's baton, are a tour de force of orchestral writing, showcasing the composer's ability to create a wide range of moods and textures.

Throughout the album, the playing of the Orchestre National de la RTF is impeccable, with Désormière's conducting bringing out the best in the orchestra and the soloists. The sound quality is excellent, with a warm and natural tone that brings the music to life.

"Nigg - Tailleferre - Auric" is a fascinating exploration of French classical music, featuring works by three of the country's most important composers. With its engaging performances and excellent sound quality, this album is a joy to listen to from start to finish.