(1912-1997)
Jean Françaix was a French composer and pianist known for his neoclassical style and prolific output. Born in Le Mans to a musically inclined family, Françaix started composing at a young age, with encouragement from his father, a musicologist, and mother, a singing teacher. He later studied at the Paris Conservatory under renowned teachers like Nadia Boulanger, who considered him one of her finest students. Throughout his career, he composed over 200 works, spanning chamber music, orchestral pieces, ballet, and film scores. His style was known for its wit, lightness, and clarity, drawing influence from composers like Ravel and Poulenc.
A key work from his early period is the String Trio (1933), which highlights his skill in chamber music. Françaix’s trio, like much of his work, is characterized by its clarity and elegance, with lively interplay between the instruments. This piece helped establish him as an important voice in 20th-century French music.
Françaix continued to compose prolifically until his death, maintaining a consistent style marked by lyricism and humor. He also earned recognition as a performer, frequently premiering his own piano works.
Recording Trinitas Trio by the Concertzender Netherlands March 11th 2007
Recording of the Trinitas Trio from June 16th 2000 in the Statenzaal of Dordrecht