Hyperion Records

Cécile Chaminade studied in Paris with several teachers, including the composer Benjamin Godard. Although a prolific composer, her music has fallen into obscurity. In 1913 she became the first woman composer to be awarded the Légion d’honneur. Although the title Étude symphonique is reminiscent of Schumann, the music begins in the style of a Chopin nocturne, and then alternates between the lyrical (Andante) and dramatic (Allegro appassionato) in a manner characteristic of the Romantic period.

from notes by Joseph A Herter © 2011