Benjamin Godard was a highly prolific 19th century French composer, writing in nearly every possible genre: opera, symphonies, concertos, chamber and solo music. The Berceuse from his opera Jocelyn became a classic “hit”.

This new recording present 81 minutes of works for piano solo, including the first complete recording of the “20 pièces pour piano Op. 58”.

The music is of enchanting and idyllic simplicity, conjuring up innocent landscapes, pastoral scenes and bucolic humour. Of especial fame is his piano piece “Les patineurs”, the ice skaters.

Italian pianist Alessandro Deljavan (who made a lasting impression on last year’s Van Cliburn Competition) captures the right spirit of these works, with his palette of infinitely varied colours and sonorities.