Clementi: Monferrine, Op. 49

Howard Shelley’s survey of the complete piano sonatas of Clementi was acclaimed not only as a set of benchmark performances, but also as the rediscovery of a composer who was uniquely important in his lifetime, which overlapped the careers of Scarlatti and Chopin. This set of Capriccios and Variations is something of a footnote to the series. The earlier works demonstrate Clementi’s lighter and more whimsical side. Most of this music was written to entertain and amuse, with many fantastical virtuoso flourishes of an improvisatory feel. The later works date from the nineteenth century, when Clementi was not quite as prolific as his younger self. Although many of these works, too, were designed for domestic use, there are exceptions such as the Two Capriccios Op 47. These are clearly ‘professional’ music: ambitious, dramatic, radically experimental, often determinedly chromatic, they show the septuagenarian composer still at work in the forefront of the most modern keyboard style. Howard Shelley has made this repertoire his own. He performs with his usual impeccably stylish flair.

Recorded November 1982, Finchcocks, Goudhurst, Kent

A compilation to illustrate the fascinating differences in tone and character of 19th century pianos. We have selected ten instruments from the world famous Finchcocks collection of historic keyboards. Music typical of the age is played by early music pianist and collector, Richard Burnett to show the instruments to best effect. The 15 tracks include works by Haydn, Schubert, Field (Nocturnes), Clementi (Monferrinas), Verdi (with clarinet), Gottschalk, Arne (vocal duet), Weber, Mozart (piano quartet movement), Brahms (clarinet sonata movement), Beethoven (song), Mendelssohn (Songs Without Words). An excellent introduction to the early keyboards and music of the period.

The final volume of Brilliant Classics’ acclaimed Clementi series, this release is dedicated to the composer’s last and most mature works for pianoforte: the Sonatas Opp. 40, 46 and 50, and the 12 Monferrinas Op.49.

The works embrace a period of around 20 years and were a major landmark within Clementi’s output. Slow introductions abound, and although Opp. 40 and 50 were composed separately, it is highly likely that the latter was intended as a sequel to the former because of their shared stylistic detail. From Op.40 No.1’s formal experimentation to the quasi‐orchestral writing of Op.50 No.3, the compilation also includes various homages – most notably Op.46, whose high level of virtuosity comprises a fitting tribute to the great pianist Friedrich Kalkbrenner. Maestro Costantino Mastroprimiano is once again our guide, creating an absorbing programme that effectively encapsulates the achievements of Clementi’s distinguished career.