A sense of poetry, of alternate spontaneity and restraint, a profound understanding of structure and a true awareness of sound…these are some of the rare qualities he demonstrates’ Maria Joao Pires

For his debut recording the young French pianist has chosen the 24 preludes and 2^nd Piano Sonata of Frederic Chopin. Composed during the years 1838-39, these works date from the beginning of the composers relationship with the writer George Sand. The Preludes in all the major and minor keys is of course a reflection on Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier, a work Chopin admired and the only score he took to Majorca for the infamous sojourn with Sand. Each Prelude (some lasting no longer than 30 seconds) is a masterpiece of invention; a new world is conjured in every one of them. An infinite lyricism hovers throughout, and everything that needs to be said is said in just a few concise bars.

The 2^nd sonata is a turbulent romantic masterwork with high emotions running riot throughout. The famous Funeral March forms the slow movement. This is music from which no one walks away unscathed!