Mozart - Rondo K511, Piano Sonata no. 6 K284, 12 Variations K265
Prokofiev - Toccata Op. 11, Piano Sonata no. 3 Op. 28, 6 pieces from Romeo & Juliet Op. 75 Lise de la Salle
Naïve V5080 (2CD + 1DVD)

Release date June 2007

One of the most striking things about Lise de la Salle is her ability to be so convincing in such a wide repertoire. Her latest recording from Naïve combines Mozart and Prokofiev. Whilst this may appear an unusual choice (and indeed, I think it is) it works remarkably well. The sheer contrast between the two accentuates, rather than detracts from, her skills as a pianist. The delicately expressive start to Mozart’s Rondo in A minor continues through the following pieces. Her playing sparkles – take for example the variations Ah, vous dirai-je, Maman where the notes seem to flutter away. By the end of the first disc I was convinced of de la Salle’s instinct for Mozart. However, from the moment Prokofiev’s Toccata begins it is clear that this second disc is also going to be a treat. There is a bite to her playing here which is all the more edgy when you consider how controlled she is throughout. The six pieces from Roméo & Juliette come across as exhilarating. De le Salle sounds as though she is in full control of the work – at times there is an almost languid feel (for example Juliette, la jeune fille and even Les Montaigu et les Capulet) which works well. The Minuet has a jauntiness to it, as though she is really enjoying the music. Les Montaigu et les Capulet, which can sound very driven, is perhaps slightly slower than what we are used to, though by no means to its detriment. In addition, there is a bonus DVD which has some short interviews with Lise de la Salle and excerpts from several concerts and rehearsals, all of which demonstrate her drive and determination. “Close your eyes and try to imagine a succession of tableaux.” This is Lise de la Salle’s instruction to the listener in her accompanying notes as she explains in detail the musical journey she is embarking on with her programme choice. Judging by these (and previous) performances her journey is remarkable and magical.

Reviewed by Ruth Squire