Composer: Frederik van Rossum
Works: Twelve Miniatures Op.10 (1964), Eglogue et Conte bleu Op.24 (1971), Little Style-Studies Op.41 (1983), Three Short Pieces for the White Keys Op.31 (1974), Twelve Miniatures Op.13 (1966)
Performers: Frederik van Rossum (piano), National Orchestra of Belgium, André Vandernoot
Recording: RENE GAILLY RG 86009
Label: ALPHA
Frederik van Rossum, born in 1939, emerges as a significant voice in the 20th-century Belgian music landscape, characterized by a strikingly personal idiom that straddles expressionism and modernism. The current release, a thoughtfully curated reissue of earlier recordings, showcases a selection of his piano works, with an emphasis on the Twelve Miniatures Op.10. This suite, completed in 1964, is a notable embodiment of van Rossum’s ability to evoke a wide spectrum of moods within concise musical statements, establishing a strong foundation for the listener’s engagement with his oeuvre.
The interpretation by van Rossum himself, who also serves as the pianist, merits particular attention. His familiarity with the material is palpable, as he navigates the intricate textures and rhythmic shifts with remarkable dexterity. Each of the twelve miniatures is imbued with distinctive character, exemplifying the composer’s keen formal grasp and his proclivity for vivid emotional expression. For instance, in the first miniature, the playful syncopation contrasts sharply with the more introspective second, showcasing van Rossum’s ability to shift atmospheres seamlessly. This contrasts with the orchestral version of the miniatures, where van Rossum has stated that the scoring emerges organically from the musical ideas rather than merely reinterpreting the keyboard work.
The sound quality of this recording reflects the advancements in audio technology since the original sessions of the 1970s, with a clarity that enhances the nuanced dynamics of the piano. The engineering captures both the brilliance of van Rossum’s touch and the subtleties of the orchestral arrangements conducted by André Vandernoot. Particularly noteworthy is the Eglogue et Conte bleu, which, in its lyrical impressionism, reveals van Rossum’s aptitude for creating atmospheric soundscapes. The interplay between the piano and orchestral textures is expertly balanced, allowing the listener to appreciate the delicate filigree of the piano line against the broader orchestral palette.
Van Rossum’s Little Style-Studies Op.41 adds a fascinating layer to this collection, as it emphasizes technical exploration while maintaining a sense of musicality. Each movement serves as a microcosm of compositional techniques, inviting the listener to appreciate not only van Rossum’s compositional prowess but also his pedagogical inclinations. The Three Short Pieces for the White Keys, with their homage to Stravinsky, Gorecki, and Prokofiev, exemplify van Rossum’s ability to pay tribute to his influences without resorting to overt quotation, instead weaving elements of their styles into a coherent narrative that speaks to his unique voice.
This release stands as an essential exploration of van Rossum’s contributions to contemporary classical music. It not only highlights his exceptional skills as a composer but also showcases his artistry as a pianist. The combination of historical significance, technical prowess, and engaging performance makes this recording a compelling introduction to van Rossum’s work, one that resonates with both newcomers and seasoned listeners alike. The reissue breathes new life into these compositions, reaffirming van Rossum’s place in the canon of 20th-century music and offering a rich auditory experience that lingers long after the final notes have faded.
