Lili Boulanger: Trois Morceaux Pour Piano

Lili Boulanger was the sister of the famous teacher Nadia Boulanger who taught Aaron Copland, Elliott Carter and Philip Glass amongst others. She was a composer for the last 10 years of her tragically short life - she died at 25 - and her music stands in the main line of French music exemplified by Faure, somewhat tinged with the influence of Debussy's Impressionism. It is generally beautiful, delicately coloured, and touching. These 'Three Pieces For Piano' display her very personal musical signature. The first piece, D'un Vieux Jardin (Of an Old Garden) conjures up mystery and nostalgia. 'D'un Jardin Clair (Of a Clear/Bright Garden) has more movement and is bathed in light. The Cortege is more lively without being fast. Shifting rhythmic accents, tricky runs and contrasting dynamics make this an exciting piece.