VARIATION [S] – CÉDRIC TIBERGHIEN

Cédric Tiberghien takes us on a captivating musical journey with his double-disc release, “Complete Variations” – the first installment in a series that explores the realm of variations from Sweelinck to Kurtág. While Beethoven serves as the focal point, Tiberghien’s inclusion of Mozart’s ‘Alla Turca’ Sonata, K331, and Webern’s Op. 27 raises intriguing questions about the program’s cohesion. Nevertheless, Tiberghien’s imaginative artistry and exquisite sound offer a banquet of surprises, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling series.

At the heart of this collection lie Schumann’s lesser-known Etudes in variation form on a theme by Beethoven. Though shrouded in uncertainty due to their incomplete nature, Tiberghien embraces their pianistic innovation, providing a glimpse into Schumann’s brilliance that resonates forward into the works of Rachmaninov. Similarly, Beethoven’s rarely heard Variations on ‘Kind, willst du ruhig schlafen’ and ‘Tändeln und Scherzen’ find a deserving place in Tiberghien’s hands, illuminating their unique charm and complexity.

A highlight of the collection emerges through Tiberghien’s introspective interpretation of Beethoven’s ‘Eroica’ variations. His nuanced approach invites listeners to delve into the intricate emotions woven within the variations, offering a fresh perspective on this familiar work. Equally enchanting are Beethoven’s Variations, Op. 34, which Tiberghien unfolds with a deft touch, revealing hidden depths beneath their surface.

The selection also offers a glimpse of Beethoven’s ingenuity in extracting captivating material from seemingly modest themes, as seen in the Variations on ‘Nel cor più non mi sento,’ which echoes the spirit of Diabelli. Tiberghien’s mastery allows these variations to shine brightly, showcasing the composer’s imaginative prowess.

The journey concludes with Schumann’s Ghost Variations, where Tiberghien delicately balances emotional depth and resilience. His performance captures the haunting essence of the piece, leaving a lasting impression that lingers in the mind long after the music fades.

While the inclusion of Mozart’s ‘Alla Turca’ Sonata and Webern’s Op. 27 might puzzle some listeners, they hint at a broader narrative that will likely unfold in subsequent volumes of the series. Tiberghien’s commitment to exploration and his impeccable pianism remain constants throughout, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the world of variations and setting high expectations for the journey that lies ahead.

Harmonia Mundi’s recording captures Tiberghien’s nuanced dynamics and expressive phrasing with remarkable clarity, allowing every subtlety of his performance to shine through. As the first step in what promises to be an illuminating series, “Complete Variations” introduces us to the enigmatic world of Beethoven and beyond, inviting us to join Tiberghien in his musical expedition.