The ninth volume in the Timpani series of the music of Jean Cras. This exceptional release is brought to you by a gathering of exceptional musicians – Juliette Hurel (numerous CDs hailed by the press), Marie-Pierre Langamet (solo harp for the Berlin Phil), Philippe Graffin - ‘The’ violinist of French music (Hyperion), Miguel da Silva (violist in the Ysaÿe Quartet). Impossible to imagine anything better!
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String Trio Deux Impromptus for harp Suite En Duo for flute and harp Quintette for harp, flute, violin, viola and cello |
Posted by Clive - Fish Fine Music on 13th Mar 2012
My CD of the Week is another of those 'walk out the door' store play discs, hence why it has taken a while to have enough stock on hand to feature. And that from a very little known composer. Jean Émile Paul Cras (May 22, 1879 – September 14, 1932) was a 20th century French composer and career naval officer. His musical compositions were inspired by his native Brittany, his travels to Africa, and most of all, by his sea voyages. As a naval commander he served with distinction in the Adriatic Campaign during World War I eventually rising to the rank of Rear Admiral.
This is superbly imaginative music: tuneful yet impressionistic. It deservedly won a Gramophone Magazine Editor's Choice back in 2011 and comes most highly recommended. I found a clip (linked below) of a movement from the delightful Quintet for Harp, Flute, Violin, Viola and Cello (played by different musicians) but rest assured, the other works are equally inspired.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODHSJeXTeBA