Album insights
Théodore Dubois, often dismissed as the author of a discouraging treatise on harmony, now symbolizes the official artistic circles of late 19th-century France. Born in 1837, Dubois excelled at the Paris Conservatoire, winning several awards, including the Premier Grand Prix de Rome in 1861. His career required patience, from becoming a Harmony professor in 1871 to eventually retiring as the institution's director in 1905. Despite his dedication to clarity and tradition, his eclectic Oeuvre touched on all genres, reflecting influences from Franck, Schumann, Brahms, and Saint-Saëns.
Dubois, not a first-class virtuoso himself, gravitated towards piano, violin, and cello compositions later in his life. The Concerto-capriccioso and the Suite concertante are considered highlights in his diverse repertoire. The structured Concerto-capriccioso, dating back to 1876, demonstrates praiseworthy virtuosity in its piano part, elevating Dubois as a compelling composer, despite the simpler orchestral arrangements. His Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, debuted in 1898, was praised for its modern style and successful proportions, with a well-integrated solo instrument within the symphonic movement.
In contrast to the lengthy first movement, the concerto's second movement embodies a sensual theme played seriously by the piano, exuding lyrical elegance reminiscent of Liszt. The French-inspired Scherzo blends elegance with monumental tutti passages, presenting a unique yet engaging composition style. The final movement showcases a dazzling virtuosity akin to Saint-Saëns, incorporating cleverly constructed contrapuntal passages into a dynamic conclusion.
In 1917, Dubois, at the age of 80, reflected on his legacy, marking the occasion with the completion of a Suite for piano and string instruments. Comprising four distinct movements, this Suite concertante retained a symphonic treatment of strings, virtuosic piano interludes, and post-Romantic fervor comparable to his earlier works. Dubois opted for the term "Suite" to capture the essence of his musical ideas, as exemplified in the delightful interplay and harmonic evolution seen throughout this remarkable piece.