Recording is never so easy.18 June 2009
To all those saying that recording is easy, I say, perhaps they should pay a visit to a studio. Of course, you can cut, past, redo, but it is not always an advantage.
The first shock when recording is a bit like the one you feel when hearing your own voice for the first time. Years [...]
5 records I can’t live without20 May 2009
After a comment from Piano Agitato in the French version of “The record: a help or a hindrance to artistic creation?”, I have been thinking about the records that have really affected me. Today, I have decided to make a selection of five of these. The choice was hard to make, but I have finally selected them from those I have listened to the most.
George Gershwin – Concerto in F3 April 2009
Not much performed in Europe, this work would deserve much wider attention. George Gershwin’s Concerto in F is a work from the classical repertoire I still find neglected. Composed in 1925, this concerto will later influence Maurice Ravel to write his Concerto in G. Ravel advised Gershwin not to underestimate the importance of jazz, [...]
How I discovered Albéniz17 March 2009
… And along with him, a good part of Spanish classical music. This brings me back to a time long ago, some 17 years. At this time, I used to listen to radio a lot and at the same time, I was discovering Ravel’s works for piano. Until one day I chanced upon a public [...]
Is the debate over piracy a “false” debate?13 March 2009
Artistic licenses and protection of creations are a current concern. Illegal downloading, free music distributed by artists themselves; the world of music recording and distribution is changing. Today, many governments are adopting new laws to protect artists’ rights. But, does the artist really need it? I mean, is this protection really intended for artists or [...]
Beaux Arts Trio retires7 October 2008
The Beaux Arts Trio, after a dazzling 53-year career, has retired this month. Menahem Pressler, 84 years old and last trio’s founding member didn’t wish to continue the adventure and form a new violonist. Indeed, Daniel Hope announced, because of his growing solo career, that he couldn’t ensure anymore the yearly 75-80 trio’s concerts.
Glenn Gould12 May 2008
Among fascinating pianists, Glenn Gould holds for me a special place. By his play and his personality, the Canadian pianist captivated me.
I first heard him in his goldberg variations in the 1981 version. I say “his” because Gould has been able to make them his while respecting the text of Bach. Then, I progressively [...]