A masterpiece by Franck. Popular classical music.

Symphony in D minorCésar Franck

Franck: Sinfonie d-Moll ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Marc Minkowski

This work, known as a quintessential French symphony, consists of three movements and employs a cyclical form.

The questioning motif introduced by the low strings at the outset recurs throughout the entire piece, lending it a strong sense of unity.

Particularly notable is the second movement, which uniquely fuses a slow movement with a scherzo and features an evocative English horn melody.

The frequent use of a German-style dark, weighty timbre and organ-like sonorities creates a profound character that reflects the composer’s religious and philosophical inner life.

Although its premiere in February 1889 received mixed reviews, it is now highly regarded as one of the significant symphonies of the late 19th century.

Symphonic VariationsCésar Franck

Nikolay Khozyainov – Franck Symphonic Variations

Composed in 1885 as a work for piano and orchestra, this piece unfolds in a variation form based on a single theme, with the piano and orchestra alternately—and sometimes together—exploring the theme.

The theme is first presented by the cello, after which it develops into complex and expressive music through the piano and orchestra.

While displaying rhythmic and harmonic beauty, it also conveys emotional depth.

The piano part demands a high level of technical skill, as well as a broad range of expression and profound emotional nuance.

Characterized by rich harmonies and intricate textures, the piece is admired for its musical complexity.

For music enthusiasts and students of classical music, it is an exceptionally valuable work for studying structure and development.

Symphonic Poem “Psyche”César Franck

AGSO (Ankara Gençlik Senfoni Orkestrası) C. Franck Psyche

A symphonic poem based on ancient Greek mythology.

Premiered in Paris in March 1888, this work is known as one of Franck’s late masterpieces.

It portrays the love story of Psyche and Eros with lavish orchestration and chorus.

The music unfolds with the narrative: a dreamlike Part I, a sensual Part II, and a Part III that expresses torment and redemption.

Hallmarks of Franck’s style—such as chromatic harmonic progressions and cyclic form—appear throughout.

A highly recommended piece for anyone wishing to experience a mystical and exalted world of love.

String Quartet in D majorCésar Franck

César Franck – String Quartet in D major (score)

The only string quartet composed in his final years.

Consisting of four movements, this work employs Franck’s distinctive “cyclical form.” The opening idée mère is varied throughout all the movements, resulting in a unified composition.

The delicate motifs of the first movement, the lightness of the second, the moving melody of the third, and in the fourth, quotations of earlier themes alongside the development of new material.

At its premiere on April 19, 1890, at the Salle Pleyel in Paris, it was met with enthusiastic applause.

Concentrating Franck’s musical inquiry and passion, this work—renowned for its profound introspection and complex structure—continues to be cherished by many today.

Chorale No. 1 in E majorCésar Franck

César Franck: Choral No.1 en Mi Majeur

The first piece from Franck’s late organ collection, Three Chorales.

This work condenses profound religious feeling and inward expression, and is cast in a free variation form.

It opens with a majestic theme, followed by a first variation driven by sixteenth notes, a stately interlude, and a contrapuntal second variation, leading to a grand climax.

Vincent d’Indy, Franck’s pupil, praised it highly, saying that nothing short of the great Bach’s masterpieces could compare.

Completed in 1890, this piece holds a particularly important place in Franck’s musical legacy and continues to be cherished by many organists.

Chorale No. 2 in B minorCésar Franck

César Franck(1822- 1890), Choral II

From ‘Three Chorales,’ No.

2: Maestoso.

A slow flow with a slight tension evolves in complex ways.

The organ is performed by Petra Veenswijk, recorded at the Maria van Jesse Church in Delft, the Netherlands.

Piano Trio No. 2César Franck

Cesar Franck, Piano Trio No. 2 in B flat, op. 1 . Trio de Salon.

A piano trio completed when Franck was 19 years old.

While it is based on the traditional four-movement structure, the work offers a glimpse of Franck’s individuality.

It features many gentle, graceful melodies and a touch of sentimentality, with dramatic elements kept in check.

The piano part is prominent, yet the balance with the strings is beautiful, leaving an overall impression of refinement.

Composed in 1841, when the young Franck was attending the Paris Conservatory, the piece brims with passion.

It can be considered a hidden gem, cherished with deep affection by classical music enthusiasts.