Mark Bebbington: a charming Poulenc interpreter

Francis Poulenc was a composer of moods. And these were often luminous, refined and beautiful.

That being said, when it comes to performing Poulenc, not only does technical proficiency is required -a good portion of attitude is also essential.

Mark Bebbington is a renowned pianist who has played alongside prestigious orchestras around the world. Known as an advocate of British music, he has now devoted his remarkable talent to Poulenc’s music, recording a couple of albums with the Royal Philharmonic that feature both known and unknown gems: his Piano Concerto and Concert Champêtre on one hand, and Aubade and his Sextet on the other.

On the first album, Bebbington offers a smart and sensual reading of the main concerto Poulenc wrote for the piano. On the second, Bebbington gets decidedly more intimate with a series of works written for chamber ensembles or smaller orchestras.

The Sextet is the piece that stands out primarily because of its joy and vivacity. Poulenc was famously dismissive about this work, but while hearing what Bebbington and his fellow musicians have accomplished, one can’t help but think that the composer was unfairly hard on himself. This is a piece that should be played and recorded more often.

The Royal Philharmonic has proven to be a competent match for Bebbington’s impeccable abilities. This ensemble offers a certain vigor and delicacy that is often needed to embark on this demanding set of Poulenc pieces. On the podium, Jan Latham-Koenig has been able to have a good grasp on balance and clarity, a fundamental trait of French music.

Poulenc’s penchant for crafting delicate yet sensual music is definitely exploited in this recording. Bebbington and his troupe play with energy and élan, which in the end is always appreciated.

With this pair of albums dedicated to one of France’s most remarkable musical figures of the twentieth century, Bebbington confirms his unique voice as a pianist and, one could also say, as a militant of French music.