Katia and Marielle Labèque Celebrate 55 Years with New Triple Album

The renowned piano duo, Katia and Marielle Labèque, commemorate over 55 years of collaboration with a new triple album. The album, titled 55, marks their significant contributions to music with 55 tracks. This includes beloved pieces from their past recordings as well as fresh tracks that spotlight underrepresented women composers.

The journey of the Labèques began at the Paris Conservatoire in 1969. While rehearsing Visions de l’Amen by Olivier Messiaen, a legendary composer and their teacher, they made a pivotal decision. When offered the chance to record with Messiaen’s wife, they chose to remain a duet. Messiaen supported their choice, leading to their first recording, which closes the new album.

The album is not just a retrospective collection. Nearly half of the tracks are newly recorded, featuring works by composers like Grażyna Bacewicz and Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou. These tracks aim to highlight female composers who were previously overlooked. The Labèques also present a compelling version of ‘Troubled Water’ by Margaret Bonds, illustrating their commitment to diverse voices in classical music.

The sisters demonstrate their mastery across different styles. They offer dynamic two-piano duets, such as Manuel de Falla’s Spanish Dance No. 1, and Iv Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. The album includes four-hand pieces from Ravel and Bizet, as well as French composers like Marie Jaëll, known for her intriguing blend of darkness and charm.

A unique aspect of the album is the opportunity for the sisters to perform individually. Katia collaborates with Chick Corea on Bill Evans’ ‘We Will Meet Again’ and brings attention to American William Duckworth and Croatian Dora Pejačević. Marielle offers solo performances of works by Erik Satie and Bryce Dessner.

Messiaen once noted the Labèques’ astonishing precision and emotive style, attributes that remain evident throughout their careers. For over 50 years, they have redefined piano duets, and this expansive 55-track album exemplifies their unparalleled contributions.