Leoš Janáček spent much of his life deciphering the native Czech speech by listening to people speak and notating their words in music. Among his expansive repertoire we find numerous operas and songs, but he transfers his obsessive use of articulation, speech-like repetition and abrupt silences in his instrumental works as well. In Fairy Tale, based on the poem by Vasily Zhukovsky, Janáček explores the intimacy of the cello and piano and like a storyteller uses their voice, from the gentlest range to the mightiest, he tells the story of Tsar Berendyey.
Gabriel Fauré also wrote extensively for the voice, and it is impossible not to compare these three short works to songs. With their colourful miniature worlds, Prodanova treats each one like a short story. Élégie is grave and tragic, while Romance is full of light and hope. Even the fast and palpitating Papillon is abundantly lyrical with poetic phrasing.
Contrary to what one might think, Chopin's biggest love and inspiration was not the piano, but the human voice. That is perhaps why he makes the piano sing like no other. In his G minor sonata, one of the only works he wrote for an instrument other than the piano, he finds a perfect partner in the cello, which he explores to its utmost vocal capacities, from the soaring soprano, to a deep bass. Taking us on a journey from the tragic G minor Allegro maestoso, through a decadent Scherzo and heartfelt Largo, the Finale transforms in its G major coda which culminates in triumph.
Yoanna Prodanova is joined by pianist Mihai Ritivoiu.
