Composer: Michael Finnissy
Works: Piano Concerto No.4 (1978, rev. 1996), Piano Concerto No.6 (1980/1), Snowdrift (1972), Verdi Transcriptions: Books 1 & 2 (1972/88, rev. 1995), To & Fro (1978, rev. 1995)
Performers: Ian Pace (piano)
Recording: Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, February 1998 and April 2000; Djanogly Hall, University of Nottingham, July 1998 and August 1998
Label: Metier MSV CD92027
Michael Finnissy, a towering figure in contemporary piano composition, has forged a distinct path that straddles the line between avant-garde innovation and the rich traditions of classical music. This double CD release showcases a selection of his works, with particular emphasis on the expansive “Verdi Transcriptions,” wherein Finnissy deftly deconstructs and transforms the operatic language of Verdi into a wholly original and challenging new context. Spanning from 1972 to 1988, these pieces reveal not merely a homage but a profound interrogation of Verdi’s melodic and harmonic vocabulary, replete with both reverence and radical reinterpretation.
The “Verdi Transcriptions” are emblematic of Finnissy’s approach to the piano, exploring the full range of the instrument while continually pushing the boundaries of traditional pianism. The performance by Ian Pace is nothing short of extraordinary; his technique is both precise and imaginative, allowing for the intricate counterpoint and dense textures of Finnissy’s writing to emerge with clarity and depth. In particular, the opening pieces of Book 1 serve as a virtuosic exploration of the keyboard, and Pace’s fingering and pedaling enhance the ethereal quality of the music. His ability to navigate the complex rhythmic structures and sudden dynamic shifts is essential in conveying the work’s demanding nature.
Finnissy’s “Piano Concerto No.4” stands out as a tour de force of pianistic bravado. Pace’s interpretation captures the manic energy that Finnissy imbues in the score, with its relentless drive and intricate interplays. The work’s layers of complexity are revealed through Pace’s nuanced phrasing and attention to the textural variety that Finnissy so meticulously crafts. Conversely, “Piano Concerto No.6” offers a stark contrast with its eerie, ghostlike passages and elongated, static sections. Here, Pace’s command of stillness and subtlety comes to the fore, particularly in the lengthy coda that lingers, almost hauntingly, in the listener’s consciousness. This juxtaposition of frenetic energy and meditative calm exemplifies Finnissy’s broad emotional palette.
Recording quality is paramount in this release, and the engineering captures the nuances of Pace’s performance with precision. The acoustic spaces of Christ’s Hospital and Djanogly Hall lend a natural resonance to the piano, allowing for both the brilliance and the shadowy depths of Finnissy’s writing to be articulated with clarity. The sound is immersive, enveloping the listener in the intricate web of sound that defines Finnissy’s music. Moments of delicate filigree, such as in “Snowdrift,” are rendered with a transparency that highlights the composer’s deft touch, while the more robust sections maintain an impressive power without sacrificing detail.
Finnissy’s works demand active engagement from the listener, and while a scholarly familiarity with Verdi’s operas may enhance the listening experience, the sheer complexity of his music stands on its own. Ian Pace’s performance is an ideal vehicle for these demanding works; his deep understanding of Finnissy’s idiom allows the subtleties and intricacies to shine through. Comparisons with other notable recordings of Finnissy’s music often reveal a deficiency in interpretive depth or technical prowess, yet Pace’s artistry elevates this collection to a significant benchmark.
The breadth of this recording encapsulates a vital aspect of contemporary piano repertoire, showcasing Finnissy’s unique voice and the remarkable interpretative capabilities of Ian Pace. This release is not only a compelling addition to the catalog of Finnissy’s work but also a profound listening experience that challenges and rewards in equal measure.
