This recording reveals that both composers suffered from the so-called "success syndrome": their exceptional abilities in one area of music overshadowed their successes in others. Rachmaninoff, for example, was primarily perceived as a virtuoso pianist, which often overshadowed his compositional achievements. Similarly, Stravinsky felt constrained by the immense success of "The Firebird," as audiences preferred this work to his other compositions.
Gabriel Pierné, born in 1863 in Metz, Lorraine, grew up as the son of a music teacher, while his mother was from Montpellier. After the Franco-Prussian War, the family moved to Paris. There, Pierné attended the Conservatoire and studied with Massenet and César Franck. He received numerous awards and in 1903 initially took on the role of assistant conductor with the Orchestra dell'Columne before later serving as its principal conductor until 1934.
Gabriel Pierné, born in 1863 in Metz, Lorraine, grew up as the son of a music teacher, while his mother was from Montpellier. Although Pierné's career was considered solid but less innovative, he demonstrated both creativity and outstanding conducting skills in premieres such as "The Firebird" and other works. His chamber music can be divided into two creative periods; it is striking how he combined diverse musical influences.
Louis Vierne was born in Poitiers in 1870 and was almost completely blind due to a congenital visual impairment. As organist at Notre-Dame in Paris, he achieved great renown in the organ music world. Both his string quartet and his organ playing were highly regarded and brought him considerable acclaim.
The music of Pierné and Vierne impresses with its diversity and technical mastery. The influence of important composers such as Massenet and Franck is clearly evident in their works.