Fernande Decruck - Fernande Decruck - Concertante Works, Vol. 2 (LP)

Fernande Decruck's "Concertante Works, Vol. 2" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of her compositions, released on March 7, 2025, under Claves Records. This album, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, showcases Decruck's mastery in blending various instruments with orchestral arrangements, creating a symphony of sounds that is both intricate and enchanting.

The album opens with the three-movement "Concerto pour violoncelle et orchestre," where Decruck's skillful use of the cello as a solo instrument against the backdrop of the orchestra is evident. The piece transitions from a serene Andantino to a tranquil Adagietto, culminating in an energetic Allegro.

Following this, the "Les Trianons" suite for harpsichord and orchestra unfolds in three movements, each offering a unique blend of the harpsichord's delicate tones with the orchestra's grandeur. The suite's Allegro moderato, Andante, and Allegro movements provide a dynamic exploration of Decruck's compositional versatility.

The "Sonate en ut# pour saxophone (ou alto) et orchestre" is another highlight, featuring four movements that range from the contemplative "Très modéré" to the festive "Noël," the whimsical "Fileuse," and the dreamy "Nocturne et Rondel." Decruck's innovative use of the saxophone or alto as a solo instrument adds a unique flavor to this piece.

The album concludes with "Les clochers de Vienne: Suite de Valses," a suite of waltzes that encapsulates the essence of Vienna's historic charm, offering a delightful finale to this collection of Decruck's concertante works.