Hi everyone,
I’m happy to share a composition of mine that goes all the way back to my high school years.
It’s a pretty high-energy piece that constantly balances dark passages with much more joyful moments—kind of a reflection of those years, I guess!
I hope you enjoy it! Let me know what you think or what it brings to mind for you.
I am pleased to introduce one of the latest compositions by Jean-Baptiste Robin, organist of the Royal Chapel of the Palace of Versailles and a highly talented improviser. He performs here Laniakea, a piece taken from his 3 Études vers l’infini.
Do you know Mélanie Bonis (1858–1937)?
A French composer trained at the Conservatoire de Paris, she wrote over 300 works. She adopted the pseudonym "Mel" to break free from the sexist prejudices of her time. Her music, blending late romanticism and impressionist influences, is now being rediscovered and is increasingly performed. Here is a short excerpt: Scherzo vivace pour flûte
If you don't know her yet, I also recommend:
• Offertoire (organ)
• Invocation (organ)
• Sortie (organ)
• Scherzo vivace (sonata for flute)
• Desdemona (piano)
• Soirée (trio)
• Phoebé (piano)
• Piano quartet
• Mélisande (piano)
Connaissez-vous Mel Bonis (Mélanie Bonis, 1858–1937) ?
Compositrice française formée au Conservatoire de Paris (élève de César Franck), elle a composé plus de 300 œuvres. Elle a adopté le pseudonyme « Mel » pour s’affranchir des préjugés sexistes de son époque. Sa musique, mêlant romantisme tardif et influences impressionnistes, est aujourd’hui redécouverte et de plus en plus jouée. Voici un court extrait : Scherzo vivace pour flûte
Si vous ne la connaissez pas encore, je vous recommande également :
• Desdemona (piano)
• Soir (trio)
• Phoebé (piano)
• Premier piano Quatuor
• Mélisande (piano)
• Toccata (orgue)
We had the pleasure of welcoming Jean-Baptiste Robin (organist at the Château de Versailles and composer) during his visit to Alsace, France, for a concert in the region.
He took the opportunity to explore several organs, including ours.
The instrument clearly inspired him: Widor, Fauré, Ravel, excerpts from his own works (sometimes unpublished), improvisations in the spirit of Dupré, a touch of film music… and even a lovely spontaneous moment with an introduction to improvisation for a very young enthusiast.
A beautiful moment I wanted to share with you. The sound quality isn’t exceptional (recorded on a smartphone), but it still gives a good sense of this special occasion.