Mompou & Ravel: Reflections

The brilliant French pianist mixes the sensual music of his compatriot Ravel with the mystical sounds of Mompou. Both distill the beauty and mystery of the natural world in music of originality, expressiveness, and rich harmonic detail. Mompou’s restrained Paisajes and Charmes create intense moods and hazy worlds of tolling bells and placid lakes, while Ravel’s more flamboyant Miroirs describe in vivid detail a boat on the ocean waves and a jester’s Spanish dance. Brocal, who also performs Ravel’s Sonatine beautifully, plays a piano once owned by Vladimir Horowitz, and achieves astonishing dynamic contrasts and a shimmering tone.