SKU: HL.346309

ISBN 9781540093851. UPC: 840126923711.

In composing songs, which Moniuszko wrote from his youth to the end of his life, he was guided by a definite idea. He wished to present Polish society with national, Polish songs, which could occupy an important place in the everyday life of the Polish people, so displacing imported trash. In a similar way Jozef Ignacy Kraszewski, with an extensive and comprehensive series of novels, supplanted the French romance, so popular, especially with contemporary ladies. Having composed a considerable number of songs, Moniuszko conceived the idea of publishing them in separate books under one general title: Songbook for Home Use. The title of this collection is significant evidence of the composers intention: these songs are to be used at home by every and any body in all the different circumstances of everyday life. They should suit the different moods and needs of the heart, so resulting in rich diversity. [Witold Rudzinski].

SKU: HL.287859

9.0x12.0x0.636 inches.

Sonatas and quartets aren't my thing. Armed with this self-knowledge, composer Isabelle Aboulker placed singing at the heart of her creative activity and garnered huge success in a variety of genres such as oratorio (The Man who Staggered Through War, 1997), comic opera (Monsieur de Balzac fait son theatre, 1999), childrens tales (Douce et Barbe Bleue, 2002) and the theatrical adaptationof narrative works (Une fille quon appelle Boule de suif, 2014). Isabelle Aboulker also devotes much attention to melody, as can be seen in this collection presenting a few of her most enchanting successes. Her prosodic clarity and focus on the power of words crystallises a musical legacy that stretches from Rameau to Poulenc.This anthology of melodies for voice and piano - most of which are written for all voices - is delightfully eclectic: the melancholyperfume of the Lettre damour sits beside the unnerving eeriness of the merchant of souls (Au marche de Saint-Paul), while the limpid music of the La Fontaines Fables contrasts with the fever that animates Je taime, a passionate vocalise dedicated to Patritica Petibon. A subtle, sensitive art that enchants all who lend an ear.