Poulenc as a performing artist: A study on musical interpretations of Poulenc’s solo piano works through his own recordings
Doctoral project of Myra Pranajaya
This study aims to gain a deeper insight into the musical interpretations of Poulenc’s solo piano works, specifically through analysis of his recordings, and how these could assist pianists in understanding Poulenc’s works. The invention of recording devices in the nineteenth century was groundbreaking, as it unlocked new opportunities for people to share and experience music. Today, these historical recordings – arguably a form of artefacts themselves – offer a more tangible experience of past performance practices.
Poulenc, being one of the composers who developed a strong interest in recordings, had recorded a number of his works and works from other composers. Moreover, he also expressed his musical thoughts through numerous articles, lectures, and interviews. Therefore, it begs the question: how are these “thoughts” conveyed through his recordings? By studying the various forms of his artistic output, I hope to provide pianists with a better overview of Poulenc’s piano works from different perspectives, notably from the perspective of Poulenc as a performing artist.
Keywords: Historical recordings, Francis Poulenc, french music, piano
Myra Pranajaya is a doctoral researcher in the Arts Study Programme at the DocMus Doctoral School.
Future doctors in music
We have approximately 150 doctoral students enrolled at the Sibelius Academy. This blog offers a view to their research projects.
The doctoral students are a part of a research community which is a unique combination of artistic activities, education, and research.
Their projects cover a wide spectrum of topics in the realm of music, combining musical practices and different research approaches.
Latest posts
Follow blog