Unsurprisingly, the Fauré Pavane Op. 50 is included in the ABC Classic ‘Swoon’ list, coming in at number 83. Frequently regarded as one of the world’s most soothing and melodic pieces, it was first performed in Paris in 1888 at the salon of Fauré’s patron Élisabeth, Comtesse Greffulhe. Fauré dedicated the Pavane to her in gratitude for a recuperative stay which she provided for him at her home in Dieppe.

Asher Fisch conducting the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, Sibelius and Brahms, 2021. Photo @ Linda Dunjey

Originally a piece for piano, the Pavane is best known from the version Fauré scored for a small orchestra and optional chorus. In this performance by the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of its Principal Conductor Asher Fisch, the orchestral version was performed without chorus. An almost imperceptible pizzicato start preceded the haunting flute solo, which was beautifully played by Andrew Nicholson, before the work and its unmistakable Fauré harmonies moved on to the contrasting dramatic section.

The tempo set by Fisch was one with which audiences are generally familiar.  Fauré himself recorded a piano version on a piano roll,...