Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg & Darius Milhaud - Milhaud: Orchestral Music (2014)

Many classical music listeners will be familiar with the name Darius Milhaud, but how familiar are they with his output? The owner of a bold, individual style, Milhaud was active for much of the 20th century, a modernist who is counted among the group of composers known as Les Six (a term coined by the music critic Henri Collet in 1920) and who was much influenced by jazz, polytonality as well as the sounds of Brazil. Bringing together many of his orchestral works, some of which are conducted by the composer himself, this release is the perfect starting-point for those wishing to become acquainted with his art. Beginning with the Six Little Symphonies, early but imaginative works written for a variety of different textures between 1917 and 1923, the set traverses through the likewise youthful ballet Lhomme et son desir, inspired by the mystique of the primeval Brazilian forest, touching on a range of different concertos in its path (including the brilliant Second Piano Concerto, completed in 1941). A carnival spirit colours many of the works particularly the Suite cisalpine and Le carnaval dAix unsurprising given the composers many visits to this country, though the South American colours are always tempered by the Milhauds native Provence, imbued as they are with French music-hall melodies, touches of piquant chromaticism and polytonality. Also included is the famous Le buf sur le toit, an episodic fantasia on popular Brazilian tunes, and La muse menagere, composed in honour of Milhauds wife. Together with notes by the composer on several of the works included, this special set offers consummate performances, many of which are given by the former Orchestra of Radio Luxembourg. A valuable addition to the classical music enthusiasts library. Other information: Booklet includes extensive notes on the music, including contributions from the composer himself.