Jacques Ibert

Jacques Ibert (1890–1962) was one of the leading composers of modern France. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire and won the Prix de Rome in 1919. Without adhering strictly to any single school, he developed a distinctive musical language marked by clear melodic lines, agile and witty rhythms, transparent textures, and refined orchestral color. These qualities can be heard in such works as the orchestral piece Escales, the ballet Divertissement, and his Flute Concerto. In his piano music, Ibert often conveys a scene or a touch of humor within concise, finely shaped forms. Piabase includes his Six Pieces, with movements such as “Ballade,” “By Boat at Night,” “Fantaisie,” “Morning on the Water,” “Reflections in the Water,” and “Scherzetto.” À la française and Christmas in Picardy likewise reveal his approachable style and characteristic French lightness.