This is an edited edition of the score based on the latest research by Akira Takakuwa, a renowned Medtner scholar.
This edition is basically based on the "Complete Works" published in the Soviet Union, and has been edited by directly looking at materials that have not been referenced before, such as the autographs. In particular, the early drafts in the "Appendix" promote a deeper understanding of the works by comparing them with the final drafts. It contains new facts that clarify points that were previously unknown in Medtner research. The most notable features of this edition are: 1. After the death of the Medtners, the autographs and other primary sources were reexamined and edited for the first time in the world. 2. As an appendix, the early drafts of three of the eight suites, which were newly discovered through the research conducted for the compilation of this score, are published for the first time in the world in this edition. The fingering and performance guide are provided by pianist Masahiro Kawakami, who is known as a Medtner performer.
Medtner is an important composer who was a contemporary of Rachmaninoff and Scriabin, and is known for many masterpieces of piano works. Since the late 1980s, he has been in the spotlight as one of the post-Rachmaninoff composers, and today there is a growing momentum for reevaluation of Medtner in Russia and Europe. The piano works are especially popular among Rachmaninoff fans, and the works are widely known through CDs, but the scores are only available in expensive imported versions and have been difficult to obtain in Japan. With this publication, reliable scores are now available at affordable prices. Among Medtner's many piano works that require advanced technique, this first collection, "Forgotten Melodies," Op. 38, is a collection of works that can be played at intermediate to advanced levels, including the most popular sonata, "Recollections." In addition to detailed explanations of the composer Medtner and his works, a guide to performance, and English commentary, the end of the book also contains an 11-page chronology to help readers learn more about the works.
This edition is the latest score that reflects "Medtner's final compositional intention" and is comparable to the original edition, and it is the forerunner of new Medtner sheet music publications not only in Japan but also at the global level. We recommend this book as a way to become familiar with Medtner's wonderful works, from enthusiasts interested in Medtner and modern Russian piano music to professional pianists.
