Brussels Philharmonic, Vlaams Radio Koor, Julien Libeer & Marion Tassou

Composer Francis Poulenc, known as the ‘joyful Catholic’, absorbed the most diverse musical styles to create his own musical universe, one that always fascinates, surprises and moves the listener. And never unengaged, as we can see in Les animaux modèles, which takes its inspiration from the fables of Lafontaine and was intended as a criticism of the Nazis. His Piano Concerto was to strengthen the bonds between the US and his native city, Paris.  His deep faith and spirituality inspired him to some of his greatest masterpieces, such as the Stabat Mater. An homage to a deceased friend, it is emotionally charged and magnificent. Yet here and there we catch a glimpse of hope and humour, or as he himself wrote: ‘a requiem without despair’.

Flagey, Brussels Philharmonic, Vlaams Radio Koor