Does anyone know the piece Francis Poulenc composed that imitated birds?

Question

I've listened to this piece years ago, but I cannot seem to remember it. I remember that it was really dark (yes, I do realize that most of Poulenc's pieces are really dark). I think it was piano only, but there could have been a flute or clarinet. There were no voice parts.

I remember being told that Poulenc was a prisoner of war and tormented by birds (thus the imitation of birds). I think this piece was written while he was imprisoned.

Can anyone help?

Answer 1

I am most certain that you are thinking of Olivier Messiaen, another French composer. Poulenc was not a prisoner of war, but Messiaen was.

And I'm most certain that the piece you are thinking of is the Quartet for the End of Time. Which was composed in the prison camp. In this piece there is piano, cello, violin and clarinet. And LOTS of bird imitation!

Answer 2

Is it this?

Two Roosters by Francis Poulenc from his ballet Les Animaux modèles.

I'm not sure, I just googled your question's most important terms to see what I could come up with. I love a good search challenge!

You might also try the Amazon link below, maybe some of the offerings will have choices that you can hear a sample of to help you find it.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Are you sure you don't mean Messiaen, another French composer? He did lots with bird songs.