Darius Milhaud's "Suite for clarinet, violin and piano" is a captivating journey through the neoclassical and chamber music genres, showcasing the composer's ingenuity and versatility. Released in 2010 by Naxos, this album spans a concise yet engaging 67 minutes, featuring a collection of works that highlight Milhaud's distinctive style and compositional prowess.
The album opens with the Suite for Violin, Clarinet, and Piano, Op. 157b, a four-movement work that demonstrates Milhaud's ability to blend humor, elegance, and rhythmic complexity. The suite's playful and inventive character is evident in movements like "Divertissement" and "Jeu," which showcase the interplay between the instruments.
Following the suite, the album presents "Scaramouche," a lively and virtuosic piece originally composed for saxophone but here performed in a clarinet and piano arrangement. The three movements of "Scaramouche" display Milhaud's mastery of form and his penchant for incorporating diverse musical influences.
The Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 40, is another highlight of the album. Composed specifically for this recording, the sonata's four movements offer a range of emotions and technical challenges, from the pastoral serenity of the first movement to the energetic finale.
The album concludes with the Clarinet Sonatina, Op. 100, and two shorter pieces, "Le printemps" and "Cinéma-Fantaisie d'après Le Bœuf sur le toit." These works further illustrate Milhaud's ability to create engaging and accessible music that resonates with audiences.
Performers Jean-Marc Fessard, Reginald Kell, and Melvin Ritter bring Milhaud's compositions to life with skill and passion, capturing the essence of his unique musical language. "Suite for clarinet, violin and piano" is a testament to Darius Milhaud's enduring legacy and a delightful addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
