The twin peaks of tonight鈥檚 all-French programme are two masterpieces from Gabriel Faur茅 and Maurice Ravel, beginning with the former鈥檚 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鈥檚 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 Faur茅鈥檚 incidental music written for a London production of Maeterlinck鈥檚 Symbolist play Pelleas and Melisande complete the evening.

Broadcast live on 麻豆官网首页入口 Radio 3

Image: Golda Schultz 漏 Vittorio Greco