Mahan Esfahani stands out among younger harpsichord players –a master of his instrument, an inspiring interpreter, a sharp musical intelligence, and a man who loves communicating with his audience. His programme is a many-faceted gem.
Hear these pieces played on the instrument they were written for by a musician of consummate artistry in an intimate atmosphere.
J S Bach’s first Partita is a powerful masterwork, embracing a Sarabande of great depth and emotional strength, and a final Gigue of scintillating brilliance. C P E Bach’s talents are at last emerging from his father’s shadow. These variations on the popular La Folia are brilliant and inventive.
Rameau’s flowing and graceful Suite, brimming with melodic and rhythmic invention (and typical Rameau energy), ends in a whirl of variations that escalate in intricacy – and difficulty.
Some of Orlando Gibbons’s most attractive works and a piece by the highly-regarded Daniel Kidane (who has also written a harpsichord concerto for Mahan) complete the programme.
Mahan Esfahani was the first early instrument specialist to be a Radio 3 New Generation Artist, and the first to give a solo harpsichord recital at the Proms.
“His instrument’s leading champion” (International Piano), he’s won praise for his “elegant…impressive technique” (New York Times) and his “daring and fiery performances” (The Times).
“Esfahani, in total control technically, clearly delights in exploiting the expressive possibilities of the harpsichord and its sheer variety of sounds” (Gramophone)
Mahan’s C P E Bach CD was Gramophone ‘Editor’s Choice’, The Times ‘Disc of the Week’and BBC Music Magazine ‘Record of the Month’. He’s recording all Rameau’s harpsichord solos.