- Mélanie Bonis (1858-1937), a remarkable French composer, remains an unsung heroine of classical music. Born in Ciboure, France, she defied the conventions of her time, pursuing a career in composition when female composers were often marginalized. Bonis faced gender bias throughout her life, publishing much of her work under the pseudonym "Mel Bonis" to gain recognition.
- Her compositions, spanning orchestral, chamber, and vocal music, exhibit a rich and unique style. Bonis was influenced by Romanticism, Impressionism, and even elements of the emerging modernist movement. Her music showcases lyrical melodies, delicate harmonies, and a deep emotional resonance.
- Today, Mélanie Bonis' music is experiencing a renaissance, as musicians and audiences rediscover her extraordinary talent. This new recording presents her complete works for flute and piano: a substantial Flute Sonata, a post-romantic work, full of poetry and light. The piano score requires exceptional virtuosity strongly influenced by César Franck, while the flute has a very dense writing as well, and both instruments link and exchange motifs as if they were one. Furthermore presented are shorter genre pieces like the Trois Mélodies, Scherzo and others.
- Played with zest and brilliance by Mario Ancillotti (flute) and Eliana Grasso (piano).