Women and the Piano: Susan Tomes' Rewarding Compilation 2026

Women and the Piano is a rewarding compilation album by pianist Susan Tomes that shines a light on female composers. This attractive collection emerged from Tomes' research for a book on female pianists across history. As she discovered, many of these women also wrote music, producing short works for the salons and domestic circles to which they were frequently restricted. Thanks to pioneering performers such as Tomes, some of the dozen women presented here are familiar names, but several will be new to many listeners, as will their appealing compositions.

Uncovering Hidden Gems: The Composers of Women and the Piano

The album features a diverse array of composers, each with a unique story. Take Marianne Martines, who was given lessons in lieu of rent by the family lodger, Haydn. Her miniature A major sonata possesses the sparkle of Scarlatti. Marianna von Auenbrugger died aged 23, but she was taught by Salieri, who paid for the publication of the Mozartian E-flat major sonata recorded here. Music by Clara Schumann, Fanny Mendelssohn, and Cécile Chaminade needs little introduction, but it’s well worth getting to know Polish virtuoso Maria Agata Szymanowska, whose Caprice sur la Romance de Joconde was dedicated to her St Petersburg neighbour, John Field. Or Venezuelan pianist Teresa Carreño, who played for Abraham Lincoln and whose Un Bal en Rêve appears to channel Happy Birthday a quarter century before it was published. Raie Da Costa’s syncopated Razor Blades is pure Billy Mayerl.

Susan Tomes' Poetic Instincts and Sensitive Touch

None of this would be half so rewarding if it were not for Tomes’ poetic instincts. Her sensitive touch, combined with Hyperion’s natural sound, gives this polite and appealing music the space to breathe. Tomes, a renowned pianist and writer, brings her deep understanding of the repertoire to each piece, making a strong case for these works to be heard more often. Her interpretations are both thoughtful and expressive, capturing the essence of each composer's style.

Why This Compilation Matters

Women and the Piano is more than just a collection of pleasant tunes; it is a corrective to the historical narrative that has often overlooked female contributions to classical music. By bringing these composers to the fore, Tomes invites listeners to reconsider the canon and appreciate the richness of music written by women. The album serves as both an introduction and a tribute, and it is a must-listen for anyone interested in classical piano music.

Comparison of Key Composers and Works

Key Takeaways

• Women and the Piano highlights a diverse range of female composers from the 18th to 20th centuries.
• Susan Tomes' sensitive playing brings out the beauty and charm of these lesser-known works.
• The album serves as an important contribution to the rediscovery of music by women.
• Hyperion's natural sound quality enhances the listening experience.
• This compilation is ideal for both classical music aficionados and newcomers alike.

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