[Poulenc’s Piano Works] A Curated Selection of Masterpieces by a Composer of Esprit

French Suite, FP 80: No. 1, “Branle de Bourgogne”Francis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc – Suite Française

While Francis Poulenc is known for his stylish works infused with esprit, he also left many pieces that possess delicate, beautiful lyricism.

His French Suite can be seen as an homage to the French lands and history he loved, a work in which classical tradition and modern sensibility are superbly fused.

In particular, the first movement, “Bransle of Burgundy,” is striking for its lively rhythms and cheerful melodies inspired by the region’s folk music.

It also conveys Poulenc’s characteristic humor, making it a highly recommended piece for those who want to savor the charm of his music.

Three Perpetual Motions FP.14a No. 3Francis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc – Mouvements perpétuels, 3) Alerte

Among the works of Francis Poulenc, a French composer active from the late 19th century to the first half of the 20th, the Three Movements Perpetuels is especially popular.

This charming set, full of the light, urbane wit characteristic of Poulenc—who was largely self-taught—displays a breezy, sophisticated flair.

In particular, the third piece, Alerte, stands out for its irregular rhythms and a buoyant tempo that propels the music from start to finish.

It is a piano work brimming with the youthful brilliance of the young Poulenc.

Intermezzi No. 1, FP 71Francis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc – Three Intermezzi [Score Video]

Francis Poulenc, one of the defining French composers of the 20th century.

Composed in 1934, his Three Intermezzi, FP 71, is a masterpiece that vividly reflects his individuality.

The first piece, which begins at a rapid tempo, is striking for its opening chords, the crisp clashes between two voices, and the sometimes lyrical, sometimes quirky shifts in tonality.

It’s a work that conveys Poulenc’s virtuosity and his deep understanding of piano music.

A Stroll, No. 1: On FootFrancis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc – Promenades [With score]

Francis Poulenc, who was self-taught in music and went on to become known as an accomplished pianist after working as a member of the young composers’ group “Les Six,” composed the set of short pieces Promenades in 1921.

Its first piece, À pied (“On Foot”), is notable for a character that depicts the leisurely enjoyment of cityscapes at an easy walking pace.

Focusing on the most elementary means of travel—walking—this work was intended to offer performers a relaxed atmosphere, and it can be regarded as a masterpiece reflecting the distinctly urban style characteristic of the Parisian Poulenc.

Theme and Variations in A-flat major, FP 151Francis Poulenc

Poulenc: Thème varié / Mayuko Obuchi

Francis Poulenc, who favored intelligent, urbane works imbued with humor and irony and was dubbed a “composer of esprit.” “Theme and Variations in A-flat major, FP 151” consists of a single theme and eleven variations, unfolding a wide array of vividly characterized sections such as “cheerful,” “refined,” and “pastoral.” While remaining true to his own musical idiom, Poulenc deftly portrays a broad palette of emotions and scenes across the variations.

Tonal and immediately approachable yet expansive in expressive range, this work is a fine example that vividly demonstrates the multifaceted nature of Poulenc’s music.