Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Frank Bridge's "Bridge: Sonata and Selected Pieces for Piano," a remarkable collection of chamber music released in 2013 under the Etcetera label. This album showcases the genius of Frank Bridge, a British composer and violinist whose works have often been overlooked but are deserving of a wider audience.
The album spans a total of 72 minutes, featuring a selection of Bridge's most notable piano compositions. The centerpiece of the album is the Sonata, Bridge's best-known piano work, which is performed with exquisite skill by Pascal Sigrist. This piece alone is a masterclass in musical expression, blending lyrical beauty with technical virtuosity.
In addition to the Sonata, the album includes a variety of other pieces that highlight Bridge's versatility and innovation. The "Three Poems" set, with its evocative titles "Solitude," "Ecstasy," and "Sunset," offers a glimpse into Bridge's ability to convey deep emotional landscapes through music. The "Three Lyrics" set, with its whimsical titles "Heart's Ease," "Dainty Rogue," and "the Hedgerow," showcases Bridge's playful side, while "Gargoyle" adds a touch of the macabre.
The "In Autumn" set, with its evocative titles "Retrospect," "Through the Eaves," and "Hidden Fires," offers a glimpse into Bridge's ability to convey deep emotional landscapes through music. The "The Hour Glass" set, with its evocative titles "Dusk," "the Dew Fairy," and "the Midnight Tide," offers a glimpse into Bridge's ability to convey deep emotional landscapes through music.
Assembled by award-winning recitalist Simon Watterton, this compilation is a testament to Bridge's enduring legacy. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.