Thursday evening, at the Chapelle historique du Bon-Pasteur, soprano Ingrid Schmithüsen and pianist Brigitte Poulin gave us an entrancing Schubert and Schoenberg ‘Liederabend’. From Schubert: eleven little known settings of Friedrich Schlegel’s naturalist cycle Abendröte (Twilight). From Schoenberg the cycle Das Buch der hängenden Gärten (The Book Of The Hanging Gardens) based on poems by Stefan Georg. The frail Ingrid Schmithüsen’s voice and vulnerability served, both, the simplicity of Schubert and the anxiety of Schoenberg. Singing everything from memory, this great artist expressed each word, each note, with sensitivity and intelligence. The piano “breathed” along with her. We were spellbound. Such musicianship is a welcomed change from a “music business” congested with mediocrities who are ten times more famous but don’t have half the talent of these two.

Translated from French.

The very demanding presentation of this Friday was also calling for feminin courage. As soon as Brigitte Poulin touched the keys, the colours were transformed, and miraculously, the piano stopped sounding out of tune. Poulin remains the heroine of the evening.

Translated from French.

… But, above all, pianist Brigitte Poulin and Percussionist D’Arcy Philip Gray delivered an absolutely stunning performance of Kontakte (1959-60) by Karlheinz Stockhausen, rivalling in power and precision with the tape part that accompanied them. Such a performance, we’d relive any day.

Translated from French.

The entire program was composed of only one piece: the Quatuor pour la fin du Temps for violin, violoncello, clarinet and piano that Messiaen wrote during the war years 1939-1945 in a concentration camp. A very strong pianist and strong musician, Brigitte Poulin provided the continuity and the atmosphere of the six movements with piano.

Translated from French.

… here we not only encountered a true masterpiece, but one masterly interpreted. Brigitte Poulin and D’Arcy Philip Gray gave an exceptional performance. Mastering all the virtuosity required for this Tombeau, in an ensemble very nearly impeccable and in perfect symbiosis. For once music and emotion spoke as one.

Translated from French.

We sense quickly a studied program. It is the second time that I hear this pianist, and once again, her power of concentration and her capability to transmit the thought and the tone quality of her playing prove to be her first qualities. If some pianists are inclined to more spectacular vistas, Brigitte Poulin seems to enjoy the secret spaces, where things take their time, in the final result rather than in the immediate gratification. She creates a rare form of attention. We come to this fine choice repertoire with trust and respect.

Translated from French.