Fauré: Nocturnes Nos. 8-13; Short Pieces, Op. 84

Read About This Recording

To some degree Gabriel Fauré is overshadowed by the music of Debussy and Ravel. Yet, without the pioneering work of Fauré, those two French giants of Impressionism would not have been able to compose the works that they did.

The Musical Heritage Society now brings to light a wonderful disc of piano music by Fauré played by Paul Crossley. I had never heard the Nocturnes before, but now I am delighted that I have. Each one of these evocative pieces creates a calm, dreamlike mood that uses the piano's dynamic and harmonic range in a complete and thrilling manner. Crossley has a terrific ability to shift gears quickly, going from dreamy and slow, to agitated and fast without wrenching the listener or the listening experience.

The eight Pieces breves, Op. 84 round out this disc. These short pieces demonstrate Fauré's ability to make a complete statement in a relatively short span. Again I was intrigued not only by the haunting music but by the exquisite playing.

If you are a fan of the Romantic piano repertoire this will be a fabulous addition to your collection, and if you love the music of Debussy and Ravel and want to experience the music that allowed them to do what they did, Fauré's music will delight you.

—Jacob Anthony

Contents

Also, Capriccio; Fantaisie; Fugue in A Minor; Adagietto; Improvisation; Fugue in E Minor; Allegresse.

Paul Crossley, Piano.