Piece, Opus 39

Chausson’s Piece Op.39, the composer’s only work for solo cello, was written during his final years and belongs with the intensity lyrical Poeme for violin and orchestra (1896) and the two quartets (1897 and 1899). Like these more ‘classical’ late works, Piece derives potency from its restrained lyricism, but is rhythmically unusual with 5/4 and 7/4 the predominant time signatures. Neil Heyde’s new edition, the first authoritative one of the work, is based on the composer’s autograph manuscript and will be welcomed by cellists seeking fresh, first-rate repertoire by major French composers. The edition includes an informative introduction and critical commentary.