Florent Schmitt - Schmitt: Piano Quintet - A tour d'anches (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of Florent Schmitt with his enchanting album "Schmitt: Piano Quintet - A tour d'anches." Released on April 5, 2011, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Schmitt's mastery of blending rich orchestral textures with intimate chamber music sensibilities. Spanning a total of 73 minutes, the album features two of Schmitt's most celebrated works: the Piano Quintet, Op. 51, and the wind quintet "A tour d'anches," Op. 97.

The Piano Quintet, Op. 51, opens with a profound and grave first movement, gradually unfolding into a lively and animated third movement. Schmitt's intricate compositions showcase his unique ability to create a dialogue between the piano and the string quartet, resulting in a deeply moving and technically demanding piece.

In contrast, "A tour d'anches," Op. 97, is a wind quintet that takes the listener on a journey through various moods and rhythms. From the playful and energetic "A courre" to the serene and introspective "Nocturne - Sarabande," and culminating in the dramatic "Quasimodo," Schmitt's work is a tour de force of compositional skill and emotional depth.

This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of early 20th-century French music. Florent Schmitt's compositions are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music collection.