Huit Études mélodiques

Published in 1857 by Richault, the Huit Études mélodiques by the Baroness Verger (Virginie Morel) are dedicated to Louise Farrenc. Though the generic title (“Études”) and the dedication to one of the Paris Conservatoire’s piano professors seem to situate the collection in the category of pedagogical works, the qualifier “melodic” added by the composer should nevertheless be taken seriously. Despite being fraught with various difficulties, these eight short pieces are intended for a salon performance, and as a demonstration of the expressive talent of both the performer and the composer. Ernest Reyer praised the score, writing on 31 July 1857 in the “Revue musicale” he held in Le Courrier de Paris and underlining its seriousness. He then continued: “The artistic world still remembers Miss Morel’s successes; and as the skilful pianist became a noble lady, she remained faithful to her art and to the only traditions she ever accepted, those of the great masters. Each page of the work gives a feeling of virility and experience: feminine grace is hidden in the titles the composer gave to each of the melodies that form her collection: ‘La berceuse’ (‘Lullaby’), ‘L’incertezza’ (‘Uncertainty’), ‘Barcarolle’, ‘Le papillon’ (‘The butterfly’), etc. These fresh poetical thoughts are preceded by a very beautiful introduction in which both parts, equally interesting and eventful, reveal the masterly touch of a hand that never fumbles.”