Recording sessions demand a meticulous approach distinct from the spontaneity of live performances. Today, I wish to share my insights into the meticulous process of bringing the complete piano works of Louis Vierne to life, a project that has captivated my musical soul.
My association with Naxos, dating back to 2015, has allowed me to embark on a recording odyssey that spans six albums. Each endeavor has been a unique exploration of diverse musical landscapes, a testament to the label’s commitment to preserving and sharing classical gems. The journey commenced with the romantic compositions of Henrique Oswald, a Brazilian maestro whose works, though underappreciated, resonated deeply with me. The reception of this debut album exceeded expectations, an affirmation of the beauty inherent in Oswald’s creations.
Since that inaugural project, Naxos has presented me with various proposals, from a Scarlatti album to a Liszt compilation. The collaborative nature of these endeavors involves a thoughtful exchange of ideas, where we collectively decide on the repertoire to be recorded. The Scarlatti album, for instance, introduced me to sonatas I might not have chosen independently. Yet, the beauty of Scarlatti’s compositions transcends popularity, and even the lesser-known pieces proved to be a joy to perform.
The latest venture, Louis Vierne’s complete piano works, emerged as a delightful surprise. Known primarily for his organ music, Vierne’s piano repertoire remained a relatively unexplored terrain for me. The proposal ignited a process of discovery and admiration, leading to a two-CD set that I eagerly anticipate sharing with audiences. The first installment will grace the airwaves on October 22nd, with the second set slated for recording in the upcoming summer—an exciting continuation of this musical odyssey.
Recording sessions, unlike live performances, demand a nuanced preparation. In a live setting, the spontaneity of the moment allows for experimentation, taking risks, and adapting to the unique interplay of venue, acoustics, and audience energy. No two live performances of a piece are identical; each rendition is an exploration guided by the dynamics of the present. However, when faced with the meticulous task of recording, the process transforms. The element of chance gives way to deliberate choices, anchoring the interpretation in a more stable and permanent form, emphasizing the structure of the piece over the ephemeral magic of the live experience.
The culmination of a recording session carries a unique emotional weight. As the final notes resonate in the studio, there is a moment of emptiness—a critical juncture where one must release the musical creation into the world. This transition from artistic endeavor to public consumption is profound, accompanied by a sense of solitude. It marks the departure of the work from the artist’s realm, becoming a shared experience for audiences worldwide. Personally, I believe all artists grapple with this moment, a mix of vulnerability and liberation.
Subsequently, I adopt a deliberate stance of detachment. Once a recording is released, I refrain from revisiting it. The work becomes a relic of the past, no longer mine to mold or refine. It exists in its own space, inviting listeners to explore and interpret its nuances. This detachment is a necessary aspect of the artistic process, allowing room for growth and the pursuit of new musical horizons.
The cyclical nature of an artist’s life becomes evident in the rhythm of projects. The completion of one recording leads seamlessly to the anticipation of the next. As the echoes of a finished project fade, a renewed sense of purpose arises with the inception of a new musical endeavor. The perpetual cycle of creation, release, and rebirth propels the artist forward, ensuring a dynamic and evolving relationship with their craft.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recording of Louis Vierne’s complete piano works has been a journey of musical exploration and artistic evolution. Navigating the delicate balance between spontaneity and precision, live performance and recording, has enriched my understanding of the creative process. As the first CD of Vierne’s opus prepares to grace the world, I find myself poised at the threshold of anticipation, ready to embark on the next chapter of musical discovery and expression. Such is the essence of a life devoted to the art of piano, where each recording is not just a culmination but a stepping stone towards an ever-unfolding musical odyssey.
