Nocturnes and Barcarolles, a baker’s dozen of each genre courtesy of Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924) – lyrical, elusive, transporting, emotional, tender – the Nocturnes have their Chopinesque moments without betraying the Frenchman’s identity, whereas the Barcarolles are tantalising in their unpredictability; indeed they are wonderful and special pieces. Playing with delectation and passion, as required, Marc-André Hamelin is a super-league guide through this fascinating repertoire that has so much to yield. And not forgetting dear old Dolly, the second pair of hands supplied by Cathy Fuller for six delightful movements. Oscar Torres’s sound is excellent (June & September last year; St Silas the Martyr, Kentish Town, London), Andrew Keener is the meticulous producer, and Hyperion CDA68331/2 (2 CDs, both are just over eighty minutes) is recommended unreservedly.
Marc-André Hamelin records Fauré’s Nocturnes & Barcarolles for Hyperion.
