Album insights
In the 19th century, British music composition was considered a historical low point, overshadowed by the European composers who took center stage in British concert halls as the fascination with Handel's music waned. Recent research has begun to unearth overlooked works by British composers from that era, sparking renewed interest in English music of the time.
In this recording, works by two composers are featured—one considered a central figure in the British music scene, and the other a promising young talent who never quite gained recognition. Both composers found their inspiration and early fame in Leipzig, sharing a teacher-student relationship along with engaging in music discussions with Mendelssohn and Schumann.
William Sterndale Bennett, born in 1816 in Sheffield, caught the attention of Mendelssohn with his first symphony during his studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London. His Caprice in E major, premiered in 1838, showcased his talent and musical prowess. Schumann's reviews praised the piece, despite some reservations about Bennett's creativity. The work, starting with piano solo passages, intricately weaved together virtuosic runs and lyrical exchanges between soloist and orchestra, revealing Bennett's compositional depth.
Bennett's Piano Concerto No. 4 in F minor, dedicated to Moscheles, presented a departure from showy displays typical of virtuoso performers, focusing instead on highlighting the composition itself. The concerto featured lush melodies and whimsical moments, displaying Bennett's lyrical piano writing. The second movement underwent changes, with the original being replaced by a Barcarole, garnering much acclaim from audiences.
Francis Edward Bache, born in 1833, initially studied under Bennett before continuing his music education in Leipzig and Paris. His Piano Concerto in E major showcased intricate compositions, drawing inspiration from Mendelssohn and integrating innovative elements into his work. Bache's dedication to his craft and experimentation with classical forms earned him praise from contemporaries like Carl Czerny.
Despite Bache's struggles with health and the shifting musical landscape, his compositions, like his Op. 18 Piano Concerto in E major, highlighted his prowess and innovative spirit. Bache's works, reflective of his diverse influences, exhibit a blend of classicism with a touch of personal flair, setting him apart from his peers.