Two young British pianists in a fascinating CD of twentieth century and contemporary piano music.
These two young women pianists, both finalists in the .British Contemporary Piano Competition have assembled a fascinating CD of twentieth century and contemporary piano music. Oldest composer by far is Henri Dutilleux (b.1916) who is represented by three of his Préludes. Youngest is Gabriel Jackson (b.1962) who has four short evocative pieces included. Chronologically sandwiched between these two are four composers: Cornelius Cardew (1936 – 1981), Howard Skempton (b.1947), Dave Smith (b.1949) and Oliver Knussen (b.1952).
What is created is an eclectic paean of piano music which demonstrates both great technical prowess and immense tone and colour variation. In this is presented a catalogue of post-romantic pianistic style, with a variety and range of expression which is, if nothing else, educational! In fact it is far more than that. It is a minor compendium of compositional styles ranging from elaborate post-romanticism through to austere minimalism. Quite a journey but one which is well worthwhile!
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