MEDIA /
J.FONG / DANS UN SENTIER TOUT PARFUMÉ
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Duo Étrange performs their latest commission by Jeffrey Fong, "Dans un sentier tout parfumé". A work based on the controversial medieval french epic poem "Roman de la rose" penned in the 12th century by Guillaume de Lorris & Jean de Meun concerning the blossoming sexuality of a young man.
This work was written for Duo Étrange by composer Jeffrey Fong (b.1995) with additional cello arrangements by Sahara von Hattenberger.
Videography: Huei Lin
Audio Engineer: Fan Jiang
J.TAVENER / AKHMATOVA SONGS FOR SOPRANO & CELLO
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Duo Étrange performs "Akhmatova Songs" by John Tavener. First premiered by Steven Isserlis and Patricia Rozario, this was the piece inspired the formation of Duo Étrange in 2023 at the Chapelle Historique du Bon Pasteur in 2023.
A musical work blending sounds of the classical canon with eastern folklore and religious inpired tonality the piece sets a collection of iconic Russian poems by Anna Akhmatova. The work is dark, political, emotional, and timeless.
Anna Akhmatova (1899-1966) was one of the most significant poets of the 20th century. Her writing, characterized often by its emotional restraint, made her a prominent dissident voice in Russia. She faced exile, condemnation, and censorship from the Stalinist regime for her work. Despite international recognition, she never emigrated and remained in the Soviet Union until her death, acting as witness to the events around her.
John Tavener (1944-2013) was a British composer renowned for blending contemporary and classical elements. Tavener's compositions merged minimalism with religious elements, such as Byzantine chant, creating a unique and timeless sound. His music accompanied many historic occasions in the 20th and 21st century, including the funeral of Princess Diana and the memorial service for the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Despite facing serious health challenges and maintaining a complex relationship with the mainstream classical music establishment, Tavener remained an influential musical figure until his passing.
Videography: Huei Lin
Audio Engineer: Fan Jiang