Clare De Lune

Steve, although I don't subscribe to the idea of a single definitive version of any given work, one of the best would certainly be Walter Gieseking's recording of the Suite Bergamasque, of which Clair de Lune is the third movement. Sublime.

All best,
Fred

Steve, bear in mind that the Gieseking is 1955 mono, but it is great. A modern recording you might enjoy is Leon Fleisher's "Two Hands" CD, which has Claire de Lune and other non-Debussy works, all of which are beautifully played.

I too don't agree with the idea of definitive versions of classical pieces, indeed, I think the idea is somewhat oxymoronic. It's not a favourite piece of mine (though I can see why it's as popular as it is) and I think I have only one recording, however it is very nice indeed. It comes on a recital disc by American pianist Leon Fleisher called 'Two Hands'. Due to dystonia he lost the use of one of his hands back in the 60s, the use of which has recently been restored due to botox injections and the album is his first two handed recording since. It includes wonderful readings of Bach pieces such as Jesu, joy of man's desiring as well as a wonderful Schubert D960 and, of course, Clair de Lune.

I think you'd struggle to go wrong with the disc (and it can be had for a fiver or so on the Amazon market place).

regards, Tam

Steve

I have always found this superb piece of music rather 'haunting', and I too would like to find a good quality recording of it. Interestingly, I remember it featured in the film 'Portrait of Jennie' which I saw many years ago. When I researched the composer Claude Debussy I found out that we share the same birthday!

Regards
Geoff

Fleisher's Two Hands is on my wish list; I've been intrigued by his story and I've heard good things about the recording.

Just want to point out that although Clair de lune is often played as a standalone piece, as it is on Fleisher's album, hearing it in the context of the Suite Bergamasque brings added perspective (although not "too much perspective" ).

All best,
Fred

Fred, do pick up the Fleisher album, I can't imagine anyone being disappointed by it. It's one of those albums that I kept on playing again and again for about a month or two after buying it.

regards, Tam

Thanks for the tips guys. I'll try for both recordings I think. I do have one version of it somewhere - I'll have to dig it up as I can't remember the full name of the pianist. Paul something or other on the Sony label. Very sterile. I originally heard it on film soundtracks, maybe that's where I should have started.
Sorry I've been so long replying.
Finally a thank you to Fred. How weird to come online and find a reply from you when I've just finished listening to "Remember The River". Beautiful music, all the better for being on the Naim label I'm sure!
Regards,
Steve O.

quote:

Originally posted by Steve O:

Finally a thank you to Fred. How weird to come online and find a reply from you when I've just finished listening to "Remember The River". Beautiful music, all the better for being on the Naim label I'm sure!
Regards,
Steve O.

Thanks for your very kind words, Steve. I'm so glad you dig the music.

All best,
Fred