On February 26, 2025, renowned violinist Renaud Capuon made waves with his appearance on Tlmatin, where he discussed both his recently released album and the musical influences of his life. Naturally, the conversation turned lively as Capuon shared intimate details about his relationship with music and his personal life.
Capuon, whose new album focuses on the works of Jean Sibelius and Samuel Barber, recorded it with the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande under the direction of Daniel Harding. This collaboration, stemming from over two decades of friendship, encapsulates both the camaraderie and the artistry they have developed through the years. "I met Daniel back in 1995 when he was Claudio Abbado's assistant at the Berlin Philharmonic," Capuon explained.
The violinist highlighted the project's remarkable backstory, saying, "It was born during the pandemic, during a time when we were all stuck at home, trying to make sense of the chaos." With the pressures of lockdown weighing heavily on musicians, Capuon and his team conceived the album over just fifteen days. The intent was to juxtapose the well-known Concerto by Sibelius with the less frequently performed works of Barber, creating what he referred to as "a musical snapshot of five years ago."
Capuon's passion for his craft was palpable during the broadcast. "I've been playing the violin since I was four years old, and it remains integral to my life. I feel so lucky to work with it every single day," he stated, sharing the sentimental value of his instrument, which dates back to 1737. He added, "I am aware of the weight and history of this instrument, and it feels like my musical partner. Whenever I play, it evokes the memories of its earlier custodians, which heightens the experience for me."
On set, the conversation shifted with Tlmatin host Flavie Flament bringing some humor to the discussion, referencing the iconic works of Johann Strauss. While acknowledging Capuon's commitment to classical music, she lightened the mood with playful comments about one of their colleagues. Flament’s humorous anecdote created a jovial atmosphere, showcasing the more personal side of the classical music world.
Revealing more about his personal life, Capuon has been in a long-term relationship with famous news anchor Laurence Ferrari since their marriage on July 3, 2009. They share the joy of parenthood with their son Elliott, born on November 8, 2010. Their romantic story began during a dinner hosted by former minister Michel Barnier, leading to what Capuon calls his "penchant for strong, charismatic women."
The new album, directly inspired by the collaboration with Harding, is praised for its deep emotional resonance, echoing Capuon's growth as both a musician and teacher. He noted, "I’ve come to understand my place on stage and what I can contribute to the music we select. I aim to keep the emotion alive and impactful, yet free of excess pressure."
Capuon’s dual roles as both soloist and musical director allow him to explore the nuances of the pieces he performs. "Under the baton of Harding, this balance between leading and obedient follow-through has taught me much about humility and leadership as I guide my orchestra," he commented. His work showcases the importance of connecting with the audience and fellow musicians, paving the way to create engaging music together.
The dazzling performance and the jovial exchanges had viewers tuned to Tlmatin, creating the perfect backdrop for the launch of his album. The positivity from both the presenter and Capuon reflected the beauty of classical music, capturing the public's attention both on-screen and through the new album. This venture not only celebrates their artistic bond but also highlights the resilience of artists who thrive even amid unprecedented challenges.
The project, drawing attention for its mixture of light-hearted moments and serious artistic endeavors, speaks volumes about the culture of modern classical music, which often transcends age and demographic boundaries. With audiences eager to engage with the emotional depth of such pieces, Capuon’s continuing contributions to the world of classical music remain as dynamic and potent as ever.
Fans and new listeners alike can find Renaud Capuon's latest album featuring the concertos by Sibelius and Barber through Warner Classics, hitting the shelves as of late February 2025. This elegant blend of artistry and heartfelt expression offers something for every music lover, bringing renowned classical compositions to both new and old audiences.