Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French mélodies with the 12 Ensemble's latest release, "Visions Illuminées," on Signum Records. This captivating choral album, released on February 17, 2023, is a testament to the ensemble's exquisite artistry and their ability to breathe new life into classic works.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, the album is a journey through the poetic landscapes of French literature, set to music by some of the most celebrated composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The 12 Ensemble, known for their innovative programming and impeccable performances, has carefully curated a collection of songs that showcase the rich tapestry of French choral music.
The album opens with Claude Debussy's "2 Mélodies, Op. 46: II. Clair de lune," a hauntingly beautiful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The ensemble then delves into the world of Arthur Honegger's "Les Illuminations, Op. 18," a cycle of songs based on the poetry of Arthur Rimbaud. Each song in this cycle is a gem in its own right, from the fanfare-like "Fanfare" to the ethereal "Being beauteous."
The 12 Ensemble also pays tribute to the great French composer Gabriel Fauré with their renditions of "Chanson Triste," "Tes yeux bleus," and "Chanson perpétuelle, Op. 37." These songs, arranged for soprano, piano, and ensemble by Robin Holloway, are a delightful blend of lyricism and melancholy, showcasing the ensemble's versatility and musical sensitivity.
The album concludes with a suite of songs based on the poetry of Paul Verlaine, arranged for soprano and piano quintet by Robin Holloway. These songs, including "La mer est plus belle," "Le son du cor s’afflige," and "L’échelonnement des haies," are a fitting end to an album that is as diverse as it is captivating.
"Visions Illuminées" is not just an album, but a celebration of the French mélodie tradition, brought to life by the 12 Ensemble's exceptional musicianship and artistic vision. Whether you're a seasoned choral music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
2 Mélodies, Op. 46: II. Clair de luneGabriel Fauré, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: I. FanfareBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: II. VillesBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: IIIa. PhraseBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: IIIb. AntiqueBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: IV. RoyautéBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: V. MarineBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: VI. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: VII. Being beauteousBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: VIII. ParadeBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: IX. DépartBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
I. Les grands vents venus d’outre-mer - Arr. for Soprano, Piano & Ensemble by Robin HollowayMaurice Ravel, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble, Joseph Middleton
II. Un grand sommeil noir - Arr. for Soprano, Piano & Ensemble by Robin HollowayBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble, Joseph Middleton
Si morne - Arr. for Soprano, Piano & Ensemble by Robin HollowayBenjamin Britten, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble, Joseph Middleton
Chanson TristeHenri Duparc, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Tes yeux bleusEmmanuel Chabrier, Mary Bevan, 12 Ensemble
Chanson perpétuelle, Op. 37Ernest Chausson, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Trois mélodies de Verlaine, L. 85: I. La mer est plus belle - Arr. for Soprano and Piano Quintet by Robin HollowayClaude Debussy, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Mandoline, L. 43 - Arr. for Soprano and Piano Quintet by Robin HollowayClaude Debussy, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Trois mélodies de Verlaine, L. 85: II. Le son du cor s’afflige - Arr. for Soprano and Piano Quintet by Robin HollowayClaude Debussy, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Trois mélodies de Verlaine, L. 85: III. L’échelonnement des haies - Arr. for Soprano and Piano Quintet by Robin HollowayClaude Debussy, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Sérénades: I. Sérénade printanièreAugusta Holmés, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Sérénades: II. Sérénade d’ÉtéAugusta Holmés, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Sérénades: III. Sérénade d’AutomneAugusta Holmés, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Sérénades: IV. Sérénade d’HiverAugusta Holmés, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
Sérénades: V. Sérénade de toujoursAugusta Holmés, Mary Bevan, Joseph Middleton, Ruisi Quartet
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