Florent Schmitt?

[fnork]

I recently came across this neglected composer as a friend played the outstanding violin sonata. Is anyone familiar with this composer? I was in awe having heard the sonata and started having a look at the piano music, but have so far not found anything as interesting as the piece I heard. Any recommended pieces...?

[thalbergmad]

If you have half an hour to spare, try the Symphonie Concertante Op.82.

A minor masterpiece perhaps.

Thal

[ahinton]

If you have half an hour to spare, try the Symphonie Concertante Op.82.

A minor masterpiece perhaps.

True, but if you have a further 20-25 minutes to spare, then the piano quintet it is!

Best,

Alistair

[thalbergmad]

I don't think I would last that long. I do not doubt Schmitt's craftmanship, but from what I have heard, there is not enough melodic interest to keep my attention for that kind of length.

Thal

[ahinton]

I don't think I would last that long. I do not doubt Schmitt's craftmanship, but from what I have heard, there is not enough melodic interest to keep my attention for that kind of length.

Well, do try it if you can summon up the energy! The piece was dedicated to Fauré, whose own sense of melodic interest was hardly lacking. To me, it's one of the pinnacles of the piano quintet literature.

Best,

Alistair