This release proves that Gabiz Reichert’s prize-winning performances at international competitions were by no means lucky strikes. That said, I believe that, as far as I’m concerned, such is not his most remarkable strike. In my view, his principal attraction in the Concert Hall stems from ‘inspiration’; the way he approaches audiences with something that goes beyond giving a traditional piano recital. By choosing and moderating his programmes, he ‘connects’ with the listener, making him ‘partner in music’. Isn’t that a delightful way to convey standard repertoire? I think it is. Here we have Bach, Brahms, Schumann and Rachmaninoff repainted in three tableaux, amplified by introducing R. Becker, echoing the other R, in his 2023 ‘Isle of Memory’.

Question is: What about Rupert’s Tears? Where do they come in? These are not the tears of Rupert Becker, because his name is Robin. The answer lies in the liner notes, written by Reichert: “This simplifying image has helped me better understand the ontology of musical works, which seem stable as a term yet fragile in their definitions”.

With this in mind, listening to Herr Gabiz becomes an adventure and, in all honesty, a real and rewarding discovery. Nothing is entirely what it seems. Bach’s Chaconne is transposed for the left hand (by Brahms), Schumann's Symphonic Studies are curtailed by playing the Appendices as a stand-alone piece, and Rachmaninoff’s ‘Collage’ is a matter of choice and preference.

The result on record is not just first-rate piano playing; it is a brilliant mix of technical prowess and thorough sensitivity, notably -and to my great pleasure- keeping Rachmaninoff away from mere showcasing. A fine artist worth your while. The more so, considering the usual ARS engineering quality, bringing the full bloom of the grand in your listening room.

A final remark: Who is Robin? I take it that for many, myself included, R.Becker is a new light on the firmament. Reading his bio, a jack of all trades, one might say. Someone seeing music through a differing eye, bringing together different musical strands, and in doing so, awakening our curiosity. Listen to his 'Isle of Memory'. Not a run-of-the-mill musician. Interesting.

Blangy-le-Château, Normandy, France.

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