Join pianist Tal Walker for an exploration of the piano compositions of Lili Boulanger and Gabriel Fauré. This programme mirrors Boulanger’s works with those of Fauré, highlighting both their musical connections and contrasting styles of their early 20th-century French piano Préludes.
Lili Boulanger was the first woman to win the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1913. She composed some of her most notable pieces during her time at the Villa Medici in Rome. Despite struggling with illness throughout her life, Boulanger's music reflects a unique depth and voice, evident in her works such as Trois morceaux and Préludes, as well as the more complex Thème et Variations.
Gabriel Fauré was one of the most influential French composers. A student of Saint-Saëns and a teacher of Ravel, he also mentored the Boulanger sisters. His serious Thème et Variations, Op. 73, is considered one of his greatest masterpieces in piano repertoire, showcasing his influences from Schumann’s Symphonic Variations alongside his polyphonic, lyrical writing and rich harmonies. This performance will also feature his Pièces brèves, Op. 84, which highlights his refined approach to melody and lyricism.
This recital presents a rare opportunity to experience Boulanger's unpublished Préludes and serves as a prelude to Tal Walker's upcoming album, set to be released in autumn 2025.
Programme First Half
Lili Boulanger
Deux Préludes:
• Prélude in D-flat major
• Prélude in B minor
Trois morceaux:
• D’un vieux jardin
• D’un jardin clair
• Cortège
Thème et Variations
Interval with complimentary tea an biscuits
Programme Second Half
Gabriel Fauré
Thème et Variations, Op. 73
Pièces Brèves, Op. 84:
· Capriccio in E-flat major
· Fantaisie in A-flat major
· Adagietto in E minor
· Improvisation in C-sharp minor
· Allégresse in C major
· Nocturne No. 8 in D-flat major
Biography:
Tal Walker is a Young Steinway Artist currently based in London. He is pursuing a PhD in piano performance at the Royal College of Music, focusing on early 20th-century French piano Préludes and their performance practices. He is a recipient of the Stanislawa Kryszek Award and the RCM Doctoral Bursary. In 2017, Tal won the bronze medal at the 18th Osaka International Music Competition in Japan. He has performed as a soloist with orchestras in Belgium, Italy, and Poland and on international stages, including Salle Cortot in Paris, Steinway Hall in London, and the Royal Flemish Opera in Antwerp. Tal has been invited to participate in artist residencies in Italy and Canada and founded and directed the concert series Monsieur Croche. His debut album, ‘Fauré, Poulenc, Messiaen: Préludes & Nocturnes’, has received praise from critics and has been featured in magazines and on radio channels such as International Piano Magazine and France Musique. Currently, Tal teaches as a Deputy Piano and Chamber Music Teacher at the Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCMJD).
Social Media and Website Links:
• Website: www.talwalker.com
• Instagram: @tal_walker
• Facebook: TalWalkerPianist
