JOYCE HATTO 1928 – 2006

 

 This great pianist, for that is how so many internationally recognised critics have been summarising the achievement of this singular British artist, has been hailed as a particularly fine interpreter of French piano music. Whilst her Debussy and Ravel are being contemplated, discussed and accessed, Joyce Hatto’s final gauntlet in Olivier Messiaen’s Vingt Regards sur l’Enfant-Jésus is now to be released in September. This is a startling performance that transcends the belief of what this huge work contains musically and raises new awareness of its possibilities. “Quite Awesome” said a famous critic at a private listening. Awesome it is as a fearsome sound picture but it is also refreshingly musical, compelling and often quite beautiful.  Joyce Hatto’s performance is breathtakingly fervent in belief, thought and deed.  Probably to be regarded as her greatest achievement on record.

 

 

OLIVIER MESSIAEN

VINGT REGARDS SUR L’ENFANT- JÉSUS

 

A Two CD Set (CACD 20032) with inner booklet and a fine study of the work by William Hedley.