I love comparing the myriad recordings of Scott Joplin’s music, particularly the more comprehensive collections of his work. Thus I am pleased to evaluate Alessandro Simonetto’s newly-completed Scott Joplin cycle. Simonetto is an Italian classically-trained pianist and composer specializing in the music of Erik Satie. His expert command of keyboard technique allows him to play with a crystalline, singing tone and interpret Joplin’s pieces in an idiosyncratic, free-spirited manner. I appreciate his lightning fast renderings of several rags, including (surprisingly, yet convincingly) Weeping Willow, Maple Leaf Rag, Kismet Rag, Sugar Cane, and Gladiolus Rag.
Other pieces, such as Leola, Binks’ Waltz, Felicity Rag, Sensation, and Rose Leaf Rag, are played very slowly and thoughtfully. There is much rubato, often at surprising junctures, such as during the coda of Scott Joplin’s New Rag. I personally like Simonetto’s impulsive, unorthodox approach to tempo and phrasing; purists will not. Listeners accustomed to “adjustments” made to Joplin’s original scores by Albright, Kirby, or Peskanov will find Simonetto’s interpretive choices intriguing.
The only track I dislike is Antoinette, played more like a nocturne than a march. The inclusion of School of Ragtime, a work often left out of “complete” Joplin collections, is a nice bonus. All in all, I very much enjoyed listening to Alessandro Simonetto’s fresh take on the piano works of Scott Joplin. Prospective buyers should sample Country Club, Combination March, and Sugar Cane to get a sense of Simonetto’s style.
Brandon Byrne is a ragtime composer, performer, and scholar. Max Morath said of Byrne, “Brandon’s unique compositions display unparalleled gifts and hidden virtuosity. His music reflects the past and challenges the future. His playing will touch your soul.” For a full list of his compositions, please visit his website.
