Armande de Polignac was one of the first women to conduct, leading her opera La Petite Sirène in Nice in 1907 and Les Mille et Une Nuits at the Théâtre du Châtelet in 1914.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Armande de Polignac insisted on her professionalism as a composer, stating that she had taken up music as a profession and worked "every day and all day long" on orchestration.
Cultural Impact
Armande de Polignac's work fell into obscurity after her death, a common fate for many female composers, until feminist musicology research in the 1970s sparked renewed interest.
Composer Biography
Armande de Polignac received in-depth musical training from notable figures like Eugène Gigout and Gabriel Fauré, and studied composition and conducting with Vincent d'Indy at the Schola Cantorum.
Historical Context
The early 20th century saw a significant change in mentality in France, allowing women to participate in prestigious artistic competitions like the Prix de Rome and pursue artistic careers on par with men.
Composer Biography
Armande de Polignac, born into a privileged Parisian family, began her musical training in London, where she was first exposed to German music, particularly Bach, and later Russian music.
Recording & Production
This album includes several world premiere recordings of Armande de Polignac's piano works, such as Pluie, Berceuse, Échappées, Cloches, and Les Mille et Une Nuits.
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