Poulenc – Salve Regina (1941)

Francis Poulenc (1899–1963), a leading figure of the 20th-century French musical scene, deftly blended neoclassical elements with poignant lyricism. As a member of Les Six, Poulenc contributed significantly to the Parisian avant-garde movement, leaving an indelible mark on diverse genres, including choral and vocal music.

Poulenc’s “Salve Regina,” composed in 1941, demonstrates unique harmonic language and emotive depth. This sacred choral work, written during a challenging period in Europe, demonstrates Poulenc’s ability to infuse traditional liturgical texts with modern sensibilities. In the context of his contemporaries like Stravinsky and Milhaud, Poulenc’s “Salve Regina” emerges as a reflection of his deeply personal and spiritual approach to composition.