We celebrate 100 years since the death of French composer Gabriel Fauré, as we evoke the intimate setting of a 19th century Parisian salon where piano music always played a central role. We hear a selection of Fauré favourites alongside his contemporaries Mel Bonis & Cecile Chaminade.

Gabriel Fauré created an extraordinary abundance of piano music, generously expanding the repertoire over five decades of creativity. His unique sound world, filled with intoxicating harmonies, unforgettable melodies and sheer joie de vivre has inspired many musicians to devote themselves to his works. This afternoon’s recital is designed to evoke the intimate setting of a 19th century Parisian salon where piano music always played a central role. Fauré’s composer contemporaries – Mel Bonis & Cecile Chaminade – were frequently invited to perform their own highly distinctive music at such gatherings. Each of the two women artists developed her own inimitable style; Chaminade focused on writing captivating miniatures which proved hugely popular with her legions of fans around the world. Bonis, a passionate and free-willed person, poured her spirit into a huge range of music, channelling Liszt’s pianistic style into her own uniquely individual voice. The concert concludes with the ever-popular Dolly Suite by Fauré, a group of six magical duet pieces that effortlessly evoke childhood’s happiest hours.

The performance will last approximately 70 mins, without an interval.