Louise Farrenc was a major figure in 19th Century Paris. But her fame as a composer and pianist soon faded after her death. It's only been revived in the early 21st Century. Stratigou's complete traversal of her piano works is both welcome and vital.
Farrenc was considered one of the greatest pianists of her age (of either gender). And she was a pedagogue. As an artist, shoe pushed technique to the limit. And as a teacher, she wrote works to help others learn those skills.
This release is mixture of works for amateurs and professionals. Farrenc wrote all her rondos within a decade, from 1827 to 1838.
All share a similar early Romantic style. Farrenc's compositions are models of clarity and elegance. And imagination.
Her Trios Rondos Faciles, Op. 8 were written for students. They're simple pieces, but ones with substance. There's a hint of Mozartian charm about them.
Arrangements of popular opera arias were a mainstay of the 1820s piano literature. Farrenc wrote six rondeau brillants on opera themes.
These are more difficult works, and more complex. While the melodies remain clear, Farrenc takes them in some unexpected directions.
Maria Stratigou's doctoral dissertation was "Performance Aspects of Louise Farrenc’s Piano Études." This is music she understands deeply. And as a pianist, Stratigou has the technique to make these works come alive.
I've enjoyed every installment of this series. And with each release, my respect for this unjustly neglected composer grows.
Louise Farrenc: Complete Piano Works 3
Rondeaux
Maria Stratigou, piano
Grand Piano
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