Chamber music by Philippe Gaubert, superbly supported by Claves

There’s no doubt that Philippe Gaubert’s chamber scores have rightfully sparked a resurgence of interest in recent years.

After a recording of chamber music by Trio Wiek for the Fuga libera label in 2007 and for Timpani (Clef ResMusica) by Jean-Marc Phillips-Varjabédian, Henri Demarquette and Marie-Josephe Jude in 2012-2013, ct Nolwenn Bargin, Maki Wiederkehr and Ensemble Chant du Vent’s turn to Claves offers a large selection of works, several of which have been brilliantly defended in previous references.

The French flautist, composer and conductor Philippe Gaubert had an exceptional reputation during his lifetime. A pupil of the famous flautist Paul Taffanel at the Paris Conservatoire, he worked on composition with Gabriel Faure, then became assistant conductor to André Messager (and solo flute) at the Société des concerts du Conservatoire at the Conservatoire. Appointed professor at the Paris Conservatoire, he replaced Messager as permanent conductor (1919) and became music director at the Opera. His reputation rests not only on his formidable qualities as a virtuoso, but also on the art of conducting an orchestra, to which he applies himself with authority and great sensitivity. He created in Paris among others Rosenkavalier, Turandot and Electra.

As a composer, if he has used his instrument mainly and extensively in solo or chamber music, his catalog is noticeably smaller than in the past. Recent revisits highlight a corpus full of agility, lively yet peaceful rhythms, singing and gentle melodies.

Nolwenn Bargin’s flute carries these essential qualities magnificently and brings additional soul and beauty, all distinction and charm to these delicate notes. He receives precise, elegant and effective support from pianist Maki Wiederkehr, whose sensitive touch enhances the flutist’s qualities. The members of the Ensemble Chant du Vent, founded by Bargin in 2001, make a positive contribution by expanding the diversity of voices, as it must be recognized that the proposed pieces are in a relatively limited register, globally dreamy and sometimes in the background. the music, with its thoughtful and poetic expressiveness, is nevertheless charming and beautifully euphonic.

These qualities do not go unnoticed in the twelve proposed works, which we will especially appreciate. Sicilianthe Fantastic, the Lullaby and ballad for flute and piano ancient medals not forgetting for flute, violin and piano Greek Fun for two flutes and harp.

This recording pays homage to Gaubert’s most beautiful pages for his instrument developed in chamber music. They sometimes have similarities with Ravel’s behavior, but more with Faure or Debussy. The instrumentalist’s performance, delicately crafted and laced with original poetry, provides a free pass for a highly recommended discovery of these brilliant and finely crafted pieces.

(visited 2 times, 1 visit today)