The album "Paris-Madrid" explores the mutual influences and exchanges between French and Spanish musical languages.
Recording & Production
Part of the album was recorded at the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare in Beauvais, France, a 12th-13th century architectural complex with exceptional acoustics due to its 13th-century wooden frame.
Interpretation
The performers aimed to highlight the 'Hispanic colors' of the guitar, blending them with the voices of Rolando Villazón, Charles Castronovo, and Sandrine Piau.
Historical Context
The 19th century saw significant cultural exchange between Paris and Madrid, partly due to the Napoleonic Wars and French occupation of Madrid.
Instruments
The album features arrangements specifically crafted to exploit the full range of colors of the guitar, such as Liat Cohen's arrangement of Albéniz's Asturias.
Cultural Impact
Spanish-born Eugénie de Montijo, Empress of France, fueled a craze for all things Hispanic in French society after marrying Napoleon III in 1853.
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