91Èȱ¬

The twin peaks of tonight’s all-French programme are two masterpieces from Gabriel Fauré and Maurice Ravel, beginning with the former’s consolatory Requiem, a work whose clean lines, pure vocal textures and elegant orchestrations appear to propose a new philosophy of religion. Prepare for temperatures to rise with the sensual awakenings and sultry dances of Ravel’s suite for the ballet Daphnis and Chloe, evoking an ancient world of pastoral delights. Two prayers by Lili Boulanger, who died tragically young at 24, and Fauré’s incidental music written for a London production of Maeterlinck’s Symbolist play Pelleas and Melisande complete the evening.

Broadcast live on 91Èȱ¬ Radio 3

Image: Golda Schultz © Vittorio Greco