G. Catoire, Prelude, Op. 17, No. 4 in B flat

[rachfan]

I'm pleased to post the Prelude, Op. 17, No. 4 in B flat of the late romantic Russian composer Georgy Catoire (1861-1926).  The four preludes of Op. 17 were published c. 1903.  The main influences on Catoire were Tchaikovsky, Wagner, Scriabin and Faure.  I hope you'll find this music enjoyable.  (Previously I posted here the Prelude, No. 2 in G.) 

Piano: Baldwin Model L Artist Grand (6'3")

Recording: Digital, Korg MR-1000 DSD

Comments welcome.

[pianowolfi]

This is very beautiful, I can very much relate to this music and to your sensitive playing!

[rachfan]

Hi wolfi,

First, Happy New Year to you!  Thanks so much for listening.  This music is so neglected, virtually unknown really, that it's difficult to know what listeners will think of it.  I'm so glad you enjoyed the prelude!  And thank you for your kind words about my playing.

[furtwaengler]

I should make a resolution to listen to more of your recordings, Rachfan. You always have rare and beautiful gems to offer us! 

Dave

[rachfan]

Hi furtwaengler,

I'm very flattered by your kind words.  As you can probably tell, I love playing Bortkiewicz and Catoire.  In this Catoire prelude, my interpretation is somewhat different from Mark Hamelin's, but that's OK, as it shows different possibilities for playing this beautiful work.  Thanks for listening!

[goldentone]

This is a wonderful piece wonderfully played, Rachfan.  Catoire is becoming a favorite of mine.  I hear shades of Debussy in this one.  I look forward to more.

[rachfan]

Hi goldentone,

Thanks for your compliment!  Yes, I would agree that there are some moments when there is a fleeting sense of impressionism.  And others where there seems to be a nod to expressionism too, as there is high emotional content in this music.  Catoire has his own place among the late romantics.  It's truly an amazing repertoire.

I'm already at work on another Catoire work, but it appears that I'll be robbed of January and practice time...  I've been called to jury duty for the month at the county superior court. Not that I don't want to perform my civic duty, but....