International Piano
An important set of Michael Finnissy’s piano works played by Ian Pace includes the composer’s four books of Verdi Transcriptions, written over a period of more than 30 years. These are not ‘transcriptions’ in the conventional (Lisztian) sense, but instead they are imaginative recompositions based freely on Verdi’s original ideas. With a few exceptions, the sound is very much that of the late 20th century, but the obvious affection Finnissy has for his source material is never in doubt, and the numbers are assembled and juxtaposed in such a way as to generate a kind of dramatic momentum quite independent from the operatic originals. Pace’s performances are magnificent: this is music he plays with absolute authority and conviction, and the results should absorb anyone coming to this music with an open mind. The rest of the set includes Finnissy’s English Country-Tunes and other transcriptions of Beethoven, Brahms and Johann Strauss. The set comes with a large booklet that includes a note by the composer and a detailed commentary by Pace that serves as a valuable guide. With definitive performances, excellent sound quality and impeccable documentation, this is a model of how to present this music. A landmark recording (Métier MEX77402, 4 discs).
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