Introduction
La Nuit Parfum, a unique fragrance house that transforms classical music into scents, will unveil its new fragrances inspired by two classic compositions: Chopin's "Piano Concerto No.1" and Ravel's "La Valse". Both fragrances will have their premiere at the Isetan Shinjuku Salon de Parfum event starting on October 8, 2025. Alongside these perfumes, limited-edition chocolates crafted to complement Chopin's scent will also be available.
Chopin’s Piano Concerto No.1 Eau de Parfum
Available for ¥19,800, this fragrance is inspired by "Piano Concerto No.1" by Frédéric François Chopin, one of the most prominent composers in the classical music realm. The year 2025 holds significant importance as it marks the Chopin International Piano Competition's return, a renowned platform for aspiring classical musicians. The first concerto is expected to be a focal piece in the finals, further emphasizing its distinguished status.
Written during Chopin's journey from Warsaw to Vienna, this masterpiece embodies his nostalgia for his homeland while navigating toward a brilliant future. The composition is characterized by its lush and elegant melodic lines, encapsulating the essence of Chopin. The fragrance derives its signature scent from the iris, often referred to as the king of essences.
Aroma Profile
- - Top notes: Jasmine, Saffron
- - Middle notes: Mimosa, Ambrette
- - Base notes: Iris, Patchouli
The fragrance was crafted by renowned perfumer Saori, inspired by the poetic interpretations of the celebrated pianist Samson François. It blends luxurious notes like jasmine and saffron, culminating in a scent that shines with modernity yet holds onto its classical roots.
Special Edition Interview
The first batch of this fragrance will include a special interview with pianist Kyohei Sorita, who won second place at the Chopin International Piano Competition in 2021. In this interview, Sorita shares his reflections on the concerto and his experiences during the competition.
Ravel’s La Valse Eau de Parfum
Matching the price of Chopin's fragrance at ¥19,800, "La Valse Eau de Parfum" draws inspiration from Maurice Ravel's orchestral masterwork which is set to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025. "La Valse" means waltz in French, and Ravel masterfully portrays the gradual disintegration of the traditional Viennese waltz through music, capturing both beauty and chaos.
Aroma Profile
- - Top notes: Green Lemon, Cypress
- - Middle notes: Jasmine, Japanese Yew Pine, Anise
- - Base notes: Cedarwood, Ajwain, Turmeric
Created by the perfume duo AOIRO, consisting of Japanese Shizuko Yoshikuni and Austrian Manuel Kuschnik, this will be their first venture into perfume-making. The resultant fragrance transitions from a vibrant top to a chaotic middle and deep, woodsy base, emulating the gradual deconstruction of the waltz.
Special Edition Interview
Accompanying this release is an exclusive interview with pianist Keigo Matsukawa, who ranked third in the Queen Elisabeth International Music Competition and second in the Long-Thibaud-Crespin International Competition. Known as a master interpreter of Ravel's music, he will also recommend wines that pair beautifully with the fragrance.
Exclusive Chocolate Pairing
In a delightful collaboration with pastry chef Shoko Hirase from the restaurant ‘L’aube’ in Roppongi, a limited number of 50 chocolates named "Chopin Piano Concerto No.1 Chocolat" will also be available for ¥6,600. These delicacies are specially designed to enhance the experience of wearing Chopin's fragrance, featuring flavors like orange confiture, lemon peel with bergamot, and dry figs with Bengal spices. Each chocolate is crafted to tantalize both the nose and palate when enjoyed alongside the perfume.
Tasting Events
On the first day of the event, two exclusive tasting sessions titled "The Symphony of Aroma and Flavor from Chopin's Piano Concerto No.1" will be held at the Isetan Shinjuku Salon de Parfum, conducted by perfumer Saori. The sessions will allow guests to explore the aromatic and gustatory harmony between the fragrance and chocolates.
Event Details
- - Location: Isetan Shinjuku, 6th Floor Event Hall
- - Dates: October 8 (Wednesday) – 13 (Monday) (October 8 is reserved for MI card holders only)
- - Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (Until 18:00 on the last day)
- - Tasting Sessions: 11:00 and 13:00
About La Nuit Parfum
La Nuit Parfum is a remarkable project launched in 2021 that aims to encapsulate classical music through fragrance. Touted as “perceiving masterpieces through skin,” it arranges musical compositions into fragrant items. Music and scent hold similarities in being ephemeral, leaving behind only memories. Thus, both are luxuriously transient experiences. The brand name is derived from Ravel's notoriously challenging piece, "Gaspard de la Nuit," highlighting a dedication to exquisite artistry in music and fragrance, inviting enthusiasts into a realm of sensuality and creativity.