Jean Françaix (1912-1997) was one of the most remarkable French composers of the 20th century. Maurice Ravel said of the young Françaix to the boy's parents, "Among the child's gifts I observe above all the most fruitful an artist can possess, that of curiosity: you must not stifle these precious gifts now or ever, or risk letting this young sensibility wither." They did not, and he flourished: Françaix was a prolific composer, writing over 200 pieces in a wide variety of styles.

In this recording of chamber music Françaix himself is present as pianist. We hear the String Trio, Le Colloque des deux perruches, Divertimento for flute and piano and the Cantata de Méphisto.

The other musicians are members of the Concertgebouw Orchestra Amsterdam and this is a reissue of a recording from 1993, still brimming with joy and excitement.