Ivan Wyschnegradsky: Works For Solo Piano – Martine Joste

“Now recognised as one of the pioneers of microtonal music and performed throughout the world, Ivan Wyschnegradsky nevertheless composed pieces for solo piano, an instrument he particularly loved, throughout his life. This recording is unique: it brings together the composer’s complete works for solo piano, known as ‘normal’ piano. Most of these pieces, previously unpublished, are being released for the first time.

The programme offers a journey backwards in time, from his mature years to his early compositions: from the étude sur le carré magique sonore, Op. 40, to the preludes of his youth written in Petrograd (Saint Petersburg) in 1916, shortly before he left Russia for good to settle in Paris, where he lived until 1979.

The pianist Martine Joste, who knew the composer well, premiered many of his works in his presence. Ivan Wyschnegradsky particularly appreciated her dynamic and sensitive playing. In 1983, she founded the Ivan Wyschnegradsky Association with Claude Ballif to raise awareness of this major figure of the 20th century. This disc sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the composer’s personality and highlights his creative journey.

The disc, co-produced with the Ivan Wyschnegradsky Association, with the support of the Francis and Mica Salabert Foundation, is released on the Shiiin label, accompanied by a 33-page booklet published in French and English.”