- Classical Music Dictionary

French pianist and composer, Alkan made his debut at the age of 12 performing his own compositions and those of others.

Alkan was a member of a Parisian social circle that included many of the leading names of philosophy and the arts in his time.

In 1838 he gave a concert performance with his close friend, Frédéric Chopin, that was warmly received by the critics and public alike.

- MIDI FILE - Etude Op.39 No.12 (8'54'')

Then, for no apparent reason, Alkan disappeared from the concert stage for six years.

- MIDI FILE - Etude op.27 (4'39'')

He returned to perform for nearly two years, but then he was not seen as a public pianist for 28 years and when he appeared again he was over 60.

During his lifetime Alkan’s technique was considered to be on a par with Chopin and Franz Liszt .

- MIDI FILE- Scherzo Diabolique op.39 n.3, for piano (4'25'')

In his later years he became intrigued with the pedalier, a pedal board attached to the piano which enables the full performance of organ music on the piano.

He composed many works for the pedal-piano exploiting the technical resources of the instrument.

- MIDI FILE - Allegro Barbaro op.25 n.5, for piano (2'37'')

His piano works require great skill and few performers care to attempt the difficulties of the Alkanian oeuvre in public.

- MIDI FILE - Saltarelle (3'42'')

The name of Alkan even now remains one capable of arousing vigorous debate in musical circles.

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