Composer: French
Recording: Philip Moore & Simon Crawford-Phillips
Date of Recording: 26-27 February 2001
Venue: St George’s Brandon Hill, Bristol
Label: Deux-Elles DXL 10405 [60.00]
In this engaging recording of French piano duets, Philip Moore and Simon Crawford-Phillips display an impressive synergy that brings to life a carefully curated selection of works by Debussy, Bizet, and Ravel. Their collaboration is not only a testament to their individual artistry but also a reflection of the rich tapestry of French musical heritage that these composers represent. The recording is well-produced, allowing for both the clarity of individual lines and the blending textures that characterize these pieces.
The program opens with Ravel’s arrangement of Debussy’s monumental Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune, a work that many might consider an ambitious choice for piano duet. Ravel, a master orchestrator, approached this transcription with an acute understanding of the original’s lush harmonic language and subtleties. The duet format, while inherently different from orchestral performance, offers a unique opportunity to explore the intricate interplay of melody and harmony. Moore and Crawford-Phillips navigate the languid phrases with a commendable sensitivity, allowing the music’s sensuality to unfurl gradually. Their interpretation is marked by a refined touch, although one might argue that certain passages—such as the ethereal opening—could benefit from a greater degree of tenderness and dynamic shading, akin to the recent EMI recording by Fromentin and Placade, which captures a more delicate approach.
Following this, Bizet’s Jeux d’enfants presents a delightful contrast in mood and texture. This suite of miniatures, brimming with charm and wit, allows the pianists to showcase their technical prowess while maintaining a playful spirit. The attention to dynamic nuance is particularly commendable; the delicate contrasts in volume and articulation lend an added dimension to the performance. The musicians expertly highlight the whimsical character of each piece, effectively capturing the sense of childhood wonder that Bizet so cleverly encapsulated.
Ravel’s Ma Mère l’Oye, a suite originally conceived as a ballet, offers an equally rich terrain for exploration. The duo’s interpretation of the Pavane de la Belle au bois dormant and Petit Poucet is characterized by a keen sense of balance and phrasing. While the performance is generally satisfying, it occasionally lacks the ethereal quality found in other notable renditions, such as that by the acclaimed duo of Duo Pleyel. The performance here, while vibrant, could delve deeper into the emotional core of these gentle movements, evoking the poignant nostalgia that Ravel so masterfully conjured.
The final work, Ravel’s La valse, in Lucien Garban’s arrangement, shifts the mood considerably. This piece, with its quasi-orchestral heft, challenges the pianists to embrace a more robust interpretation. Moore and Crawford-Phillips rise to this occasion with vigor, executing the work’s rhythmic complexities with commendable energy and precision. However, as the performance unfolds, one longs for the orchestral original’s expansive sound world, which inherently carries a depth that is difficult to replicate on piano. Nonetheless, the duo successfully conveys the work’s grandeur while enjoying the nuances of the piano duet format.
Recording quality plays an integral role in the overall experience of this album. The engineers have achieved a commendable balance, ensuring that the clarity of both instruments is preserved without sacrificing warmth. The ambient acoustics of the St George’s Brandon Hill venue contribute positively, allowing for an intimate yet resonant sound that enhances the listening experience.
In conclusion, this recording of French piano duets by Philip Moore and Simon Crawford-Phillips serves as a compelling exploration of the repertoire, characterized by thoughtful interpretations and a palpable camaraderie between the performers. While there are moments that could be further refined in terms of emotional depth and dynamic shading, the artistry displayed is nonetheless commendable. This album stands as a worthy addition to the catalog of French piano music and will undoubtedly resonate with those who appreciate the nuanced interplay of this beloved repertoire.
