Cécile Louise Stéphanie Chaminade (Aug. 8, 1857 - April 13, 1944) was a French pianist and composer. Her first teacher was her mother, and she also took violin and compositions; sadly her father disapproved. Despite her father's disapproval, Chaminade was composing at a young age, and at eight years old she played some of her music for George Bizet, who was very impressed. Her first concert happened ten years later, and most of her compositions, which were mainly for piano, were published. She toured all around France, and Isidor Phillipp, head of the piano department at the Paris Conservatory, was a strong proponent of her works. Chaminade was also very popular in America; her work was often found in the music collections of piano music enthusiasts.

Les Sylvains (The Fauns) is just one of her many piano compositions. It revolves around two main themes; the first  is lyrical, with a steady, syncopated beat in the left hand, and the other is very frolicsome. In this second theme we hear fanciful runs, and a playful, sparkling melody, all in the higher register, before returning to that original lyrical theme.

Here are some recordings of this work for you to enjoy!

Condon Collection: Original Piano Roll Recordings
Cécile Chaminade: The Hall Collection Vol. 1