Francis Poulenc's vocal music transcribed for violin and piano
New recording features transcriptions and performances by violinist Hongyi Mo
"Métamorphoses" includes ten of Poulenc's songs plus the sonatas for violin and oboe
Released August 15, 2025 on Azica Records
The text of Francis Poulenc's songs imbues intense emotions into his music. This fact inspired the award-winning violinist Hongyi Mo to transcribe ten of Poulenc's songs for violin and piano. These transcriptions, along with Poulenc's oboe and violin sonatas are captured on a new recording performed by Mo with pianist John Etsell. "Métamorphoses" is released August 15, 2025 on Azica Records.
"The core intent of this album is to lead listeners into an overlooked but profoundly important aspect of classical instrumental music: its inherent literary quality. In Poulenc’s art songs, the poetry deeply influences the performer’s approach to melody, harmony, and imagery in ways that are both profound and unique," writes Hongyi in the album notes. "It is the pursuit of the unattainable, the possibilities of fleeting moments that come tantalizingly close to perfection, that draws me irresistibly to Poulenc’s art songs."
Mo explains how he chose the title for the album, "Métamorphoses," which is also the name of one of the song cycles on the recording. “Although it’s not uncommon for instrumentalists to perform vocal art songs, a large-scale interpretation carries a deeper meaning. It’s not simply about showcasing melodic beauty; rather, it’s a serious and focused exploration of the literary qualities inherent in instrumental music, particularly those inspired by the rich expressiveness of poetry. This, in essence, is a kind of metamorphosis, or transformation.”
Since 2008, Hongyi has been an esteemed member of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, where he regularly serves as guest principal second violin. His versatility as a musician has also led to collaborations with artists from diverse genres, including Andrea Bocelli and Eminem.
Contact ClassicalCommunications@gmail.com to request a physical CD or digital copy of this recording.