Jules Massenet’s numerous operas (notably Manon and Werther) have somewhat overshadowed his symphonic works, not to mention his oratorios and melodies. At the head of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, French conductor Jean-Luc Tingaud brings some of his forgotten manuscripts back to life.
Visions is a symphonic poem modelled on works by Liszt – particularly his famous Preludes. It was inspired by his travels, as Massenet said himself: “The last hour of the day, in the high and sad solitudes of Simplon. The traveller there has fallen asleep, but his sleep is disturbed by visions that are calm or agitated, smiling or terrible. He wakes up. Around him it is night...he no longer dreams, he listens and thinks he hears a voice dear to his memory.”
Brumaire was written for a historical drama commemorating Napoleon’s coup d'etat that ended the 'Directoire' period. The Overture for “Phaedra”, written at the Pasdeloup Orchestra’s request, is considered one of Massenet’s best instrumental works and has long been included in the symphonic repertoire. The incidental music for Les Erinnyes and his ballet Espada show Massenet’s appeal for exoticism – something that was fashionable at the time. This aspect of his music is still largely undiscovered. © François Hudry/Qobuz