Pianist Bertrand Chamayou has released a new recording of Felix Mendelssohn's complete 'Songs Without Words' for solo piano. The collection comprises 48 pieces, organised into eight sets of six, which Mendelssohn composed over a 16-year period during his adult life.
While only a few of these miniatures typically appear in recital programmes, Chamayou's new release offers the full set. His playing is noted for its singing quality and a generally softer, smoother, and more flowing style compared to other interpretations.
One example highlighted is the 'Duetto' from Op 38, where melodic lines are described as alternating like male and female voices. Chamayou reportedly views going through these pieces as akin to "opening a trunk of family photos faded by time."