Search - Frederic Rzewski, Lisa Moore :: Frederic Rzewski: Which Side Are You On?

Rzewski's masterpiece in a stunning new interpretation

Bruce Hodges | New York, NY | 08/01/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

""De Profundis," for speaking pianist, is a tour-de-force -- 45 minutes of portions of Oscar Wilde's text written from prison, coupled with an intricate and often harrowing piano part. Originally written for the superb Anthony de Mare, Rzewski's complex score requires a special type of performer to succeed, and while there are a number of excellent accounts available (including one by the composer himself), now we have this new one from the seemingly fearless Lisa Moore. What distinguishes this piece is its gamut of emotions, and corresponding demands on the performer. A pianist attempting it must *act* the part, while simultaneously traversing the keyboard, occasionally slapping herself, hitting the wood of the piano, laughing, whispering, and at one point even deploying a car horn. I have heard Moore perform this piece live several times, and am happy to report that this recording accurately captures her considerable stamina and insight. Aside from her technical prowess, Moore captures a wide and uncanny range of moods -- rage, sadness, silliness, introspection -- that make up Wilde's moving and reflective memoir. In the equally intriguing "North American Ballads," Moore hurls herself into a gripping performance of "Winnsboro Cotton Mill Blues," recreating the sounds of the mechanical processor, churning and chugging, over and over. In its climactic passages, the piece almost seems to overwhelm itself, with the machinery seemingly spinning out of control. The almost inhuman demands on the pianist don't seem to faze Moore one bit.Rzewski is one of the most original compositional voices around, and in this recording, he has found an equally original performer to give life to some of his most startling music. The recording quality is excellent, miked a bit close so the listener can catch every nuance of Moore's carefully rehearsed gestures. Just amazing."