Jacques Desbrière's "Desbrière: Piano Concerto" is a captivating journey through the intricate and expressive world of contemporary classical piano music. Released on March 25, 2014, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album showcases Desbrière's remarkable talent as both a composer and a pianist. Spanning just over 50 minutes, the album is a collection of works that highlight Desbrière's unique ability to blend technical virtuosity with deep emotional resonance.
The album opens with "5 Pièces étranges," a suite of five pieces that explore a range of moods and tempos, from the moderate Andante of the first piece to the lively Allegretto of the fifth. Following this, "8 Préludes intérieurs" offers a series of preludes that are both introspective and dynamic, showcasing Desbrière's versatility and depth as a composer. The final piece on the album is the "Piano Concerto," a three-movement work that demonstrates Desbrière's mastery of the concerto form, with its dramatic contrasts and rich harmonic language.
Throughout the album, Desbrière's playing is impeccable, characterized by a keen sense of phrasing and a deep understanding of the music's emotional content. The recording quality is excellent, with a clear and balanced sound that allows the nuances of Desbrière's playing to shine through. Whether you are a fan of contemporary classical music or simply looking to discover new and exciting piano repertoire, "Desbrière: Piano Concerto" is an album that is sure to impress and inspire.