Credits:

Yvonne Loriod

Description:

The genre of symphonic poetry is said to have been initiated by Liszt, but in the French musical tradition, some of Berlioz's works should also be called "symphonic poems. Franck's series of symphonic poems may also be situated in that tradition. Saint-Saens' works follow. The best known of his four symphonic poems is "Dance of Death," inspired by the poem by Henri Cazalis. This one depicts skeletons dancing eerily in the middle of the night in a true-to-life musical performance. The "Phaethon" and "The Youth of Hercules" are based on Greek mythology, and each expresses "pride" and "the vexations of heroism and pleasure," according to the composer himself. The first piece, "Onfar's Spinning Wheel," is strongly influenced by Liszt. It is also based on Greek mythology, and was a favorite of Saint-Saens himself, so much so that a solo piano version was later composed. Each piece is exquisitely orchestrated, and is beautifully performed by Quasi-Merkle. Naxos Japan

Tracklisting:

1.Phaeton, symphonic poem in C major, Op. 39
2.Marche heroique, for orchestra in E flat major, Op. 34
3.La jeunesse d'Hercule, symphonic poem in E flat major, Op. 50
4.Le Rouet d'Omphale, symphonic poem in A major, Op. 31
5.Sarabande et rigaudon, for strings in E major, Op. 93
6.Danse macabre, symphonic poem in G minor, Op. 40