Piano Works: Hamelin

Poor Max Reger! One of the last links in the great German Romantic tradition, Reger and his music have been unfairly neglected. Startlingly prolific, Reger rejected the innovations of Schoenberg and composed in a style that was born in Brahms and perfected by Bruckner. Reger turned his back on the composition of program music and remained faithful to the old forms, thus paying homage to a tradition dating back to old masters like Bach. Because of his conservative nature Reger has been branded a dry academic. This recording of his piano music proves that Reger's time has come.
The 'Variations and Fugue on a theme of J.S. Bach' is wonderfully innovative and presents Reger as a master of the form. The variations are complex, while the gigantic fugue that closes the work is awe inspiring. A more genial side of the composer is presented with the playful Five Humoresques. Pianist Marc-Andr Hamelin plays with wit and stunning technical skill throughout the program. This is a first-rate exploration of the music of a composer who deserves our admiration.