French Piano Rarities

Dive into the world of French piano music with Ralph van Raat's captivating album, "French Piano Rarities." This collection showcases seldom-heard and recently discovered works by influential composers who shaped the landscape of 20th-century classical music. Van Raat, a maestro of the piano, brings to life pieces that have long been overshadowed by more popular selections, offering a fresh and intriguing perspective on French piano repertoire.

The album features a mix of minimalism, classical piano, and avant-garde styles, spanning a total of 23 tracks and 77 minutes of enchanting music. Among the highlights are a posthumously discovered piano study by Claude Debussy, a reconstructed birdsong work by Olivier Messiaen, and a tiny masterpiece by Maurice Ravel found in a notebook. Additionally, the album includes the premiere recording of Pierre Boulez's "Prélude, Toccata et Scherzo," adding an element of exclusivity to this collection.

Van Raat's authoritative performance and meticulous attention to detail shine through in each piece, from the delicate nuances of Debussy's "Étude retrouvée" to the bold playing of Messiaen's "Des canyons aux étoiles." The album is a testament to Van Raat's fascination with 20th-century classical music, which has been a driving force in his career since the age of 14.

Recorded in 2018 at the Muziekgebouw in Amsterdam, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the lesser-known gems of French piano music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "French Piano Rarities" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the incredible talent of Ralph van Raat and the enduring appeal of French piano music.