No Joke, this composer is to be taken seriously!

I was first introduced to the music of the French composer Jean Francaix, by concerts of the Olmos Ensemble here in San Antonio. I found Francaix's works fun, beautifully constructed and accessible. A real prodigy, Francaix was composing by six and was brought to the attention of Nadia Boulanger who considered him one of her best students. A composer at heart, Francaix continued his chosen path to his death at the age of 85.

When it comes to pronouncing the name of the composer, Jean Francaix few people agree. Some say "frahn-SAY", but the composer himself wrote to a New York broadcaster claiming it is "frahn-SEX". You can hear about the sense of humor of this composer on the Piano this Sunday afternoon, so we never know when this brilliant musician is joking or not - like getting American radio announcers to say "sex" every time we announce his music! However you say his name, his music is fun, bright and witty. On the Piano this Sunday I speak to Nicole Narboni who introduced me to the piano music of this charming musician.


Nicole has a new album out which gives us the best idea of Francaix's music for his own instrument, the piano. And you can hear some of it this Sunday afternoon at 5 on KPAC and KTXI.

Host, Randy Anderson