An elegy (élégie) comes from the Greek and English and is derived from the Greek élegos ("lament"). It is a poetic or musical composition that expresses grief or lamentation, typically mourning the loss of a loved one or reflecting on themes such as grief and melancholy.

Massenet's famous "Clair de lune", presented here in an arrangement by the composer himself, envelops us in a dreamlike atmosphere, with the piano painting a delicate lunar landscape imbued with a subtle melancholy. The original is one of the most touching scenes in the opera Werther, when the protagonist feels his love for Charlotte rising within him.

Contrary to popular belief, Ravel's Pavane pour une infante défunte is not dedicated to a departed soul. Rather, it is a nostalgic evocation of an imaginary childhood, rich in charm and mystery. Joseph Jemain's orchestration lends Ravel's music even more depth and suggestiveness, if possible, by introducing the piano, the protagonist of Ravel's original version, into the ensemble.

Violin and piano engage in a dialog of deep contemplation in Saint-Saëns' Élégie in D, Op. 143. The poignant melody and refined harmony express feelings of loss and consolation. This very intense and moving piece has secured an important place in the violin repertoire.

The cello takes on the role of narrator in Fauré's Élégie, Op. 24, telling a story of pain and hope with great expressive intensity. It is a very lyrical and touching piece, characterized by its expressive style and singable melody.

Debussy's Suite bergamasque transports us into a world of dreams and suggestions. Through four evocative dances with Renaissance and Baroque flair, the orchestra takes us on a musical journey full of charm and tenderness. The orchestration by Wilhelm Renz lends Debussy's picturesque music even more vibrancy. Renz is also the arranger of the Carnival of the Animals by Saint-Saëns presented here. His orchestral version adds sparkle and color to the composer's music while retaining its original spirit of fun and irony, streamlining the orchestration in places and adding elements for a richer, more layered sound in others.

Recorded in August 2023 in Anzio (Italy).
The booklet in English contains liner notes by Valerio Vicari and profiles of the orchestra and conductor.

A beautiful program of French music from the turn of the 19th/20th century, evoking a late romantic and slightly impressionistic atmosphere in an elegiac mood.

The works presented are Elegies by Saint-Saëns (1835-1921), Fauré (1845-1924), Vieuxtemps (1820-1881) and Massenet (1842-1912), the Suite Bergamasque by Debussy (1862-1918), Pavane by Ravel (1875-1937) and, to conclude in a more spirited mood, the Carnaval des Animaux by Saint-Saëns. Several of the works have been transcribed for an instrumental ensemble with flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin, viola, cello and double bass. Sensual and impressive performances by the Roma Tre Orchestra under the direction of Sieva Borzak.