Mourning for a fine French pianist, 88
UncategorizedThe elegant and sensitive Gabriel Tacchino has left us at a great age.
Born in Cannes, he was the only pianist to have lessons with Francis Poulenc (pictured together), and on the composer’s own piano. His recorded Poulenc nterpretations are invested with deep intimacy.
Herbert von Karajan took Tacchino on US tours with the Berlin Philharmonic; he went on to perform with many of the world’s leading orchestras and artists. His recordings of the complete Saint-Saens and Prokofiev concertos were landmarks in their time.
I think the Prokofiev was more Michel Beroff, next generation. Tacchino had some class, good for him he was from this gone generation, he wouldn’t get much attention today, no short dress or baby on the way, maybe too reserved and subtle to lead a first rate career….
I don’t see why it’s necessary to diss a great pianist of the present in order to mourn the loss of one of the past.
or special sports car like lang lang
What a beautiful pianist Gabriel Tacchino was! He had a lovely touch and a wonderful artistic vision of whatever music he played.
Although perhaps best known for his association with Poulenc (he recorded the complete piano music of that composer for French EMI), he also studied with Jacques Fevrier and Marguerite Long.
I own many of his recordings – the complete Poulenc mentioned above, the 5 concertos of both Prokofiev and Saint-Saens (on the wonderful VOX label), and others as well. They are all masterful.
Au revoir, cher Gabriel.
One of my favorite recordings of his is the absolutely underrated Saint-Saëns Piano Concerto No 1.
One of my favorite pianists…