Thalberg: L'Art du chant applique au piano, Op. 70, Vol. 1

Featuring

Alessandro Commellato
Sigismond Thalberg

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Compositional Technique

In his transcriptions, Thalberg used larger notes for the melody line to visually emphasize it and make it stand out like a human voice above the accompaniment.

Composer Biography

Thalberg had a deep connection with Italy, marrying the daughter of famous bass singer Luigi Lablache in 1844 and establishing his residence in Posillipo from 1858.

Compositional Technique

Thalberg developed a technique known as 'sound illusions à la Thalberg' where the melody is shared between both hands, creating the impression of a 'third hand' playing the melody.

Critical Reception

Thalberg's works and compositional style suffered a long period of relative oblivion, partly due to comparisons with his rival Franz Liszt.

Recording & Production

This recording features an Érard piano from 1843, similar to the one Thalberg used at his villa in Posillipo.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Sigismond Thalberg's collection L'art du chant appliqué au piano Op.70 aims to teach musicians how to reproduce the expressiveness, breath, and warmth of vocal art on the piano.

Cultural Impact

George Bizet published his own collection of transcriptions, Le pianiste chanteur, in 1865, intended as an "introduction à L'art du chant de S. Thalberg."