Debussy Les Preludes 1Er Livre

   in Piano International (Jul, 2015)
A timely release, given Barenboim’s recent Schubert series in London and the publicity accorded to the Barenboim- Meane concert grand piano (see news on page 8 and review on page 62). This film was previously released on DVD as Entre quatre-z-yeux, inspired by the composer’s stated intention that his Preludes be listened to and performed privately in suitably intimate surroundings. The performances are introduced by quotes from Debussy and his contemporaries, as well as by Barenboim himself.

Barenboim has always been an eloquent speaker, and this is no exception – in fact his comments are rather more appealing than his performances. The sound itself is rather shallow, and the Steinway …