Music Review: Susan Chan, Irina Feoktistova, Sally Pinkas, and Ann Schein - Music For Classical Piano - Page 4

Also included on this release is the remarkable “Piano Variations” written by Aaron Copland (1900-1990) in 1930. Of this piece Leonard Bernstein, who played it passionately throughout his life, said that he found ‘prophetic statement and reflective meditation in all of Copland’s music’. Certainly, the striking opening consisting of the impression of a single spoken voice, represented a unique departure at the time.

The four note theme brings the work to a powerful and memorable conclusion. It is widely considered to be something of a breakthrough work that despite its clear economy radiates a mesmerising power. Here it is performed in a way that doubtless would have delighted Copland himself.

Also performed by both Ann and her husband, the violinist Earl Carlyss, is Copland’s “Sonata For Violin And Piano”. This was written much later in 1943. It is a largely pastoral piece in comparison and is beautifully performed here by both musicians. These are the kind of neighbours you would really like to hear playing late at night.

Lastly, Ann Schein performs “Lakes” by the renowned jazz musician John Patitucci. It is a piece that was written and dedicated to Ann herself in 2007. Inspired by the Lake District in Northern England it captures something not only of the area but also the other people that have drawn inspiration from it. Included in this observation are poets such as Keats, Shelley, Coleridge, and Wordsworth.

Patitucci captures the flowing of water, the beauty of the area, and the drama of its landscape. Of this piece, which closes the collection, Ann says, ‘I am honoured and thrilled to include it in this album’. Meanwhile John adds, ‘I gave Ann a piece that provided an open space for her to express her wide spectrum of colours and moods from virtuosic to lyrical, pensive to visceral. I am honoured that she has connected with this piece in such a powerful way and made it her own’.

The above albums expertly capture recordings of pianists at the very pinnacle of performance. Included within the selections are pieces that are immensely challenging and demanding that only the most accomplished could hope to do justice to.

MSR Classics have a wealth of material available and a visit to their website is highly encouraged.

Article Author: Jeff Perkins

Jeff is a writer who lives in France. He writes CD/DVD box sets, music reviews and has had a book published about David Byron of Uriah Heep. He is 'busy' exploring the music of Europe with his wife Debbie and dog Dylan. It's Dylan that does the writing of course. …

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