Ravel's artificial, indirect soundscape challenges the interpreter to extreme levels, demanding virtuosity, a sense of sound and sensitivity.The works recorded for this CD by the young French pianist Romain Descharmes present the quintessence of Ravel's oeuvre for piano: from the classicist Sonatine via the fantastic world of Gaspard de la Nuit - a milestone in virtuosity - and the ingenious waltz-paraphrases of the Valses Nobles et Sentimentales. Descharmes' realisation of the piece and his performance, confidently combining risk and control, impressively reveals what powers can be unleashed in the virtuosic solo piano version of La Valse. Romain Descharmes was awarded First Prize in the Dublin International Piano Competition in 2006, leading him to perform recitals on many prestigious international stages. Furthermore he has been awarded prizes at other international competitions and gives recitals in his home country France and abroad. In addition to his solo carreer Romain Descharmes is a sought-after chamber musician.
