The curtain is about to lift on a hidden gem from France's rich musical heritage, as the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra gives its all to the captivating orchestral works of Mel Bonis. Conducted by maestro Rumon Gamba and featuring soprano Elizabeth Watts, this studio recording on the Chandos label is set to breathe new life into Bonis's 'finely crafted' and 'perfumed' masterpieces, offering a fresh perspective on her enchanting compositions.
Bonis, a classmate of Claude Debussy at the Paris Conservatory, was a composer who packed a punch despite often working on a smaller scale. Her orchestral music is said to rival that of her more famous friend in terms of instrumental intrigue and beguiling beauty. The album shines a spotlight on Bonis's most ambitious works: the 'Trois Femmes de Légende', composed around 1909, are a highlight of the recording. These brief tone poems bring legendary female figures to life: Ophelia as a tragic water nymph, Salome as an exotic princess, and Cleopatra, whose portrayal is both sensuous and uneasy, underpinned by quiet bass instrumentation supporting a languid melody.
The album also features two orchestral songs, both performed by soprano Elizabeth Watts. 'Le Chat sur le Toit' stands out as a playful and imaginative depiction of a cat's mischievous antics across rooftops, with its mercurial quality leaving you on the edge of your seat. Other works on the recording, many of which are dances, are infused with a 'fleet-footed lightness'. While some pieces feel like interludes, brief and concise, their enjoyment is not diminished by their brevity, reinforcing the idea of Bonis's 'slender yet perfectly formed' musical style.
This release continues a welcome trend of bringing overlooked female composers to the forefront, allowing modern audiences to appreciate their contributions to classical music. The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra's involvement underscores the commitment of UK cultural institutions to promote diverse classical repertoire. While Bonis may not be a household name like some of her male contemporaries, recordings like this are vital in establishing her rightful place in musical history.
The album's availability allows UK classical music enthusiasts to delve into the nuanced and often dreamlike soundscapes created by Bonis, offering an alternative and enriching listening experience. It highlights the depth of talent that existed within the early 20th-century French music scene, beyond the most commonly celebrated figures.