Rhené-Baton: Chamber Music for Piano and Strings

Rhené-Baton (1879-1940, born as Rhené-Emmanuel Baton) was a key figure in the first half of 20th century Paris. A pianist, composer and orchestral conductor he led many world premieres of the time (among which works by Debussy and Ravel), he was conductor at the Opéra-Comique and he led international tours of the famous Les Ballets Russes. His style is a reflection of his time, while he drew inspiration from the folk music of his native Brittany, resulting in a lyrical, neo-archaic musical language. This recording presents two 'Violin Sonatas', a 'Cello Sonata' and a 'Piano Trio', highly attractive works full of dazzling colors, folksy melodies and rhythms, and instrumental virtuosity. Played by the Wolferl Trio, three excellent Italian soloists come together through their love for undiscovered chamber music treasures.