An important marker in Debussy’s compositional development, the Fantaisie reflects something of the influence of César Franck’s Symphonic Variations yet embodies his own new aesthetic. Unpublished in Debussy’s lifetime, it is heard here in its 1968 revision.

The delicately evocative Rapsodie for saxophone is an exotic work with an ‘oriental’ atmosphere and Spanish or Moorish associations. Although composed as a Conservatoire test piece, the Première Rapsodie for Clarinet has long since entered the repertoire as an important addition for the instrument. The glittering Danses for harp and strings recall Satie’s Gymnopédies, with the Danse profane in particular calling for a degree of virtuosity.

Volume 6 of this much admired series (8572583) was praised for its ‘subtle and sensitive readings’ (Gramophone).

Hailed as ‘one of the best pianists in the world', Jean-Yves Thibaudet is sought after by today’s foremost orchestras, festivals, conductors and collaborative musicians for his enlightened interpretations and charisma. Jun Märkl took up his job as musical director of the Lyon National Orchestra in September 2005, and in 2007/8 he became Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of the MDR Sinfonieorchester.