Luigini, Alexandre (1850-1906)

[Reverie]

Luigini (of Italian descent) was born in Lyon. After studying at the Conservatoire in Paris where he won a second prize for violin, Luigini returned to Lyon and from 1872 played as a violinist in the theater orchestra, which he went on to lead, becoming conductor in 1877.

As resident conductor he was also expected to meet the compositional demands of the theatre, leading to a number of ballets, operas and orchestral suites. In 1879 he was appointed professor of harmony and composition at the Conservatory of Lyon.

In 1897 he left Lyon to take up the conductorship of the Opéra-Comique in Paris, and led a busy life until his sudden death there in 1906.

His compositions reflect his stage-orchestra background, being mostly music for ballet and opera. A love of melody and an assured grasp of bright and sparkling orchestration, often put me in mind of Moszkowski.

Ballet russe, Op.23  (1885)

5 movements:

I.   Czardas
II.  Valse lente
III. Scène
IV.  Mazurka
V.   Marche russe

LINK:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhjlgCzKCFc

[eschiss1]

Thanks!
Wrote several string quartets too, iirc. I'd be interested in hearing one of those

[Alan Howe]

Absolutely gorgeous stuff - thanks, Martin. A great tonic on a gloomy November day! It'd make a really enjoyable CD, perhaps with some further material by the composer.

[Reverie]

Thanks. It's vibrant music isn't it - full of a Franco-Italian energy

[Elgar4Ever]

We must be made aware of "Ballet égyptien" by Luigini which features themes and motifs that evoke an exotic, oriental atmosphere, characteristic of the 19th-century European fascination with Egypt. The suite comprises eight movements, each with distinct musical characteristics:
   •   Allegro non troppo and Allegretto: These movements feature lively rhythms and melodies that suggest dance and celebration.
   •   Andante sostenuto and Andantino: Slower tempos in these sections create a more contemplative and mysterious mood.
   •   Allegro con fuoco: This movement is marked by energetic and fiery passages.
   •   Finale (Andante espressivo - Allegro non troppo): Combines expressive melodies with a brisk conclusion, encapsulating the suite's structure.

Anatole Fistoulari recorded this lovely music for EMI in the 1950's. It is now coupled with music by Albert Ketelbey on a Classics For Pleasure CD, which may be out of print.

[Adrian Harrison]

Those interested in historical recordings may wish to be aware that Luigini's Ballet russe op. 23 was recorded over two session in December 1929 and April 1930 by Sir John Barbirolli and the LSO. This recording is available as part of the 109-CD set "Sir John Barbirolli The Complete Warner Recordings".

[terry martyn]

I have, and still play, the Fistoulari. It is coupled with some exquisitely-played works by Glinka.

[Gareth Vaughan]

I have the Classics for Pleasure CD and play it often.