Release Date: 01 October 1998
Label: Hyperion Records Ltd
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 034571170374
Genres: Classical Solo Instrumental
Description
It is a bit of a mystery why Saint-Saens's enjoyable etudes are not better known. Perhaps it is their extreme awkwardness which deters pianists—these works are prime examples of a peculiarly French school of finger technique which requires absolute independence and equality for each digit, making no concession whatsoever to the weaker fingers or the shape of the hand.
The Opp 52 and 111 sets of etudes each end with a barn-storming show-stopper, 'En forme de Valse' and 'Toccata d'après le 5e Concerto' respectively. The left-hand etudes are perhaps less demanding, but nonetheless require a particular clarity and precision, being in essence a pastiche Baroque suite.
The Thème Varie, fundamentally a compendium of pianistic challenges, was written as a test piece for the Paris Conservatoire.
Tracklisting
Mishka Rushdie Momen
The Gesualdo Six / Owain Park
Takacs Quartet
Simon Callaghan, Sinfonieorchester St Gallen
Cinquecento
Andrey Gugnin
El Leon de Oro / Peter Phillips
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Yvonne Kenny, Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
Piers Lane
