Commission of « Orléans Concours International » for the 6th International piano competition of Orléans for youth « Brin d’herbe » supported by the Région Centre.
Note of intent by Michel Decoust
These are three pieces written for piano (three levels) untitled “Pianopolis”.
“Pianopolis” was written in homage to three French piano builders who were active from the 19th century. Their factories were located in the outskirts of Paris.
Jean Henri Pape (1787-1875) built instruments whose sound resembled that of the fortepiano. Their increased power and harmonic resonance gave a glimpse of things to come.
Sébastien Érard (1752-1831) invented the double escapement action, which made it easier to repeat notes, thus enabling quicker playing. Érard’s parallel-strung concert grands were the choice of many of the greatest virtuosos.
Ignace Pleyel (1757-1831) was the inventor of the cross-strung piano, which resulted in the wonderfully silky sound that was held in such high esteem by Chopin, Debussy, Ravel, and Poulenc.
