Fantasy

This debut recital disc stands out for high-quality playing but also for the inclusion of three fascinating early works by Messiaen: the haunting La Mort du Nombre (1930), which includes parts for soprano (Rhona McKail) and tenor (Nicky Spence), the ethereal Theme and Variations and the Fantaisie, thought lost until 2007. All were written at the time of Messiaen’s tragic first marriage, to the violinist Claire Delbos who, left mentally incapacitated by surgery in the 1940s, spent the remainder of her life in an asylum. Schubert’s Fantasie and Schoenberg’s Phantasy provide stimulating companion pieces. (The Observer)

The Messiaen Fantasie and his nearly contemporaneous Thème et variations are very much in the contemplative vein of La Mort du nombre, and in some ways suit Yamada best. She also makes neat work of Schoenberg’s late (1947) Phantasy. (International Record Review)

This disc, cannily constructed and inter-thematically programmed, sheds light upon the various works performed. Its intelligence in this respect is matched by the performances, and good recorded sound. (Musicweb International)

For those who enjoy thematic collections, this highly appealing and deeply thoughtful one should be irresistible. Strongly recommended to everyone across the board. (Fanfare)