Antoine Reicha: Reicha Rediscovered Vol. 1 – Ivan Ilic

   in Classical Music (Jan, 2018)
Antonín Reicha was born in the same year as his friend and fellow student in Bonn, Beethoven. While his music never disappeared from view, especially not the copious volumes of wind music, Reicha’s disinclination to publish most of his works left his output in limbo. This first volume in a new series devoted to the piano music is an exciting development in rehabilitating this once famous and important figure.

Ivan Ili?’s carefully selected programme showcases the music’s variety. The largest work is the Grande Sonate, a typically lyrical, big-boned work, close in style and expressive ambition to Beethoven’s of this period. Hearing it with an ‘innocent ear’, one might be forgiven …