We are fortunate to have this recording come out this particular time. Although Debussy’s Preludes have been recorded a number of times previously, I find this issue far more successful.
Many earlier releases have been discontinued or suffer from outdated recording quality or somewhat unengaged playing.
This high quality new disc on the French ‘Paraty’ label played on a magnificent Steinway by young American artist of Serbian origin, Ivan Ilic is now an outstanding recommendation.
Due to the many images of varying moods, impressions and atmospheres, it requires a pianist of phenomenal technique, utmost sensitivity and playing with élan, colour, restrained but pronounced emotional engagement and an extraordinary imagination.
All these are presented here in abundance, with the natural resonances of the Steinway just as Debussy intended it.
Each piece has its own atmosphere and structure that the pianist never fails to bring out.
As random examples, Ce qu’a vu le Vent d’Ouest is a very dynamic piece simulating the powerful, menacing wind, perhaps the loudest in the series, but even here the pianist never pounds the piano. It comes as a breathtaking climax.
Or La Cathedrale engloutie with its archaic harmonies and long sustained pedal notes suggesting the texture of deep water. I could go on…
"— Janos Gardonyi
The Wholenote, Canada
February 2009 issue
