Presents
Henri Bertini
Piano Trio in A Major, Op.43
Henri Bertini (1798-1876) was born in London but his family returned to Paris shortly after his birth. He first learned the piano from his father and his brother, a pupil of Muzio Clementi and was considered a child prodigy. After studies in composition, he was appointed professor of music in Brussels but returned to Paris in 1821. He enjoyed a career as a soloist, composer and teacher. He wrote close to 200 works with opus and many more without, most for piano. However, he did not ignore chamber music, writing several works for piano and various instrumental combinations from piano trios to a piano nonet.
At one time, his chamber enjoyed great popularity. The Piano Trio in A Major, Op.43 which dates from the mid 1820’s was published in 1825 by Richault. It was dedicated to Friedrich Kalkbrenner one of the leading piano virtuosos then active Paris. It is in four movements. Though certainly given some fine opportunities does not dominate as if it were a piano concerto, as is often the case in works written by piano virtuosi, The strings are frequently given the opportunity to develop the thematic material while the piano weaves filigree accompaniment around them. The piano writing is extremely elegant and tasteful, in the style of Clementi, Mozart and Hummel so that one is almost unaware of some of the virtuosic passages given to it. The Trio is full of lovely Mozartean influenced melodies. The opening Allegro begins with an introduction though not so marked. It leads to the exciting main section, recalling early Beethoven although the sparkling piano writing owes more to Clementi than Beethoven. The main theme to lovely second movement, Andante, is introduced first by the violin and then the cello. Everything is tasteful and restrained. A bright, upbeat Minuetto, allegro vivace comes next, but this is not a traditional minuet but rather a cross between a scherzo and an intermezzo. The rhymically accented trio provides a nice contrast. The finale, Rondo, allegro, begins in the fashion of a slow Polonaise and more or less keeps to this style even as the tempo and excitement increase.
Our new edition has been carefully overseen by senior editor Raymond Silvertrust. This is a delightful and elegant work deserving concert performance where it is sure to please, but it can also be recommended to amateur players.
Parts: $29.95
