Fauré - Works for Cello & Piano
Gagnepain; Dayez

Zig Zag ZZT070602

Release date October 2007

A “master of the intimate” is one of Xavier Gagnepain’s more precise descriptions of Gabriel Fauré. It appears from this disc that such a statement would not be an inaccurate portrayal of the cellist himself. His informal, yet informative, sleeve notes provide a fitting introduction. The historical context of each of Fauré’s works for cello and piano is expertly summarised, and Gagnepain’s own impressions of the individual compositions provide a fascinating accompaniment. He describes his “Fauréan baptism”; the moment when he became “bound forever to a music that seemed different from any I had heard until then”. One cannot help but be swayed by his obvious enthusiasm. The recording itself is compelling. It comprises two larger-scale works, the Cello Sonatas Op.109 and 117, interspersed with Fauré’s attractive and more famous cello miniatures. The clarity of sound in the recording is notable. The listener can appreciate every nuance, especially important in the occasionally repetitive miniatures. The order of the programme demonstrates the contrast between Fauré’s trademark tenderness and lyricism, and the more frantic qualities of his later style. Particularly effective is the juxtaposition of the sombre Elégie with the snappy and energetic first Cello Sonata. Both Cello Sonatas are characterised by vigorous outer movements which Gagnepain and Dayez approach with gusto. The slower movements, and indeed the miniatures, are no less passionate, and Fauré’s changing moods are captured with ease. I am ashamed to admit my initial assumption that a complete disc of Fauré’s cello music might be a bit bland, but thanks to this rather special disc I now find myself a few steps closer to my own “Fauréan baptism”!

Reviewed by Heather Kennedy