Poulenc, Pascal Rogé, Jean-Philippe Collard, Chantal Juillet, André Cazalet ‎– Music For Two Pianos · Violin Sonata · Élégie For Horn

Poulenc, Pascal Rogé, Jean-Philippe Collard, Chantal Juillet, André Cazalet ‎– Music For Two Pianos · Violin Sonata · Élégie For Horn

A refined and expressive survey of chamber works by Francis Poulenc, this collection highlights the composer’s distinctive blend of wit, lyricism, and emotional depth. Performed by an exceptional ensemble - including pianists Pascal Rogé and Jean-Philippe Collard - these recordings bring clarity and nuance to Poulenc’s richly textured writing.

The works for two pianos form the heart of the programme, from the playful theatricality of Capriccio (Le Bal Masqué) to the structured elegance of the Sonata for Two Pianos, where shifting moods move seamlessly between lightness and introspection. The shorter pieces add charm and colour, revealing Poulenc’s gift for melody and atmosphere in miniature form.

The Violin Sonata, performed with Chantal Juillet, introduces a more dramatic, sometimes turbulent voice—balancing fiery intensity with moments of stillness. Closing the collection, the Élégie for Horn and Piano, featuring André Cazalet, offers a deeply moving and reflective conclusion, marked by its sombre tone and lyrical beauty.

Elegant, varied, and unmistakably French in character, this recording is an essential listen for admirers of 20th-century chamber music.

Tracklist:

1. Capriccio for 2 Pianos (Le Bal Masqué)
2. Sonata for 2 Pianos – I. Prologue
3. Sonata for 2 Pianos – II. Allegro molto
4. Sonata for 2 Pianos – III. Andante lyrico
5. Sonata for 2 Pianos – IV. Epilogue
6. Élégie for 2 Pianos
7. Sonata for Piano, 4 Hands – I. Prélude
8. Sonata for Piano, 4 Hands – II. Rustique
9. Sonata for Piano, 4 Hands – III. Final
10. L’Embarquement pour Cythère (for 2 pianos)
11. Violin Sonata – I. Allegro con fuoco
12. Violin Sonata – II. Intermezzo: Très lente et calme
13. Violin Sonata – III. Presto tragico
14. Élégie for Horn and Piano