Emmanuel Despax has recently played two concerts at the Bechstein Hall, focused on Ravel and Chopin’s birthdays. The concert focusing on Chopin’s birthday was on 1st March, and the concert for Ravel was on 7th March. In advance of the concerts, he wrote an article for InterludeHK around the idea of the ‘perfect piano’“The idea of the “perfect piano” is as elusive as it is enticing—a piano should be capable of the loudest outbursts and the softest whispers, a vast array of colours, a beautiful singing tone, and a responsive action.”
“This tonal quality finds a natural ally in the French repertoire as well. Composers like Ravel and Debussy require an instrument with incredible dynamic breadth, well-regulated action, and orchestral colours. Ravel, in particular, was known to appreciate the clarity and evenness of tone that Bechstein pianos offered. Debussy’s famous remark—“Piano music should only be written for the Bechstein”—encapsulates the instrument’s unique ability to balance expression and nuance in his music.”
Read the full article here