Between 1910 and 1973, Darius Milhaud composed more than 443 works, which he assigned to different opus numbers. His output includes both original compositions and arrangements for two pianos and piano duos. His oeuvre includes four scores for two pianos with orchestra, among them two concertos, a suite, Opus 300, and the Concertino d’Automne. Many of these pieces—including some of his most popular works—have been released on CD.
A prime example is "Le Bœuf sur le Toit, Opus 58a," which was written in 1919 in a version for piano duet. Milhaud drew inspiration from his numerous travels and incorporated musical impressions from a wide variety of countries into his works. His stay in Brazil in 1917 was particularly formative, later reflected in compositions such as "Le Bœuf sur le Toit," which blends Brazilian rhythms and popular melodies.
The work "Scaramouche Opus 165b" for two pianos from 1937 is based on music originally intended for the theater. Similarly, "La Libertadora Opus 236a," a continuation of Bolivar, explores themes of liberation and freedom, incorporating South American folk music in Milhaud's characteristic style.
The composition "Les Songes Opus 237" from 1943 draws on an earlier ballet, while "Le Bal Martiniquais Opus 249" (1944) incorporates Caribbean melodies. With works such as "carnaval à la nouvelle-orléans Opus 275" (1947) and "Kentuckiana Opus 287" (1948), Milhaud demonstrates his musical versatility and innovative spirit.