Simon Crawford-Phillips and Friends: Vers la vie nouvelle

The Music

Nadia Boulanger gave up composition after the tragically early death of her sister Lili, but became one of the most influential teachers of the last century. In these evocative chamber and vocal works, we hear the subtle, elusive musical language of both Boulanger sisters, in a world of sun, sea and springtime. Boulanger’s pupil Landry contributes a small, but powerfully expressive song; while Sohy’s Anathème burns with intensity.

Instruments appear in a variety of ways, with the violin a literal and poetic presence in Saint-Saëns’ artful chanson. Fauré’s dancing Mandoline sits alongside Poulenc’s tender and fierce sonata, with its central movement depicting a guitar that ‘makes dreams weep’.

The Performers

Featured artist Simon Crawford-Phillips is joined by Mary Bevan, renowned for her interpretations of French chansons, and by regular collaborator Malin Broman, one of today’s most sought-after chamber musicians.