The solo piano works of
Gabriel Fauré are frequently overshadowed by those of
Chopin,
Debussy, and
Ravel, but this disc by
Kun Woo Paik is a very welcome addition to the relatively small pool of recordings dedicated to
Fauré's music.
Paik shows exactly where
Fauré's music fits into the continuum between
Chopin and
Debussy and
Ravel. He finds the flowing lyricism and delicate ornamentation that follow
Chopin's example, and the harmonies and pianistic colors that precede
Debussy and
Ravel. There are also some elements of the Germanic Romantic piano school, particularly in the Romances sans paroles and the Impromptu No. 2 -- like
Mendelssohn's Songs without Words -- and in the
Schumann-like character of those pieces that have more drama or variation in mood between sections, such as
Fauré's last piano work, Nocturne No. 13.
Paik sounds as if he knows these pieces instinctively and intimately, he knows exactly how he wants each phrase to sound and each idea he wants to communicate, but his playing isn't over-analytical. It's personal, lush, and adoring. It may be too saccharine for those who dislike the Romantic penchant for sentimentality and theatrics, but
Paik doesn't give in to cloyingness and doesn't communicate anything he doesn't feel. The highlight of the disc is the solo version of the Ballade, more often heard in its piano and orchestra version. In this version, it's not only a heroic narrative, but also a demonstration of
Fauré's full understanding of the piano as an instrument and a virtuosic challenge to the performer. Decca's clear sound allows
Paik's playing to resonate attractively. This is a treat for fans of both
Fauré and Romantic piano music.