Yann Tiersen
A French import you should know about
Yann Tiersen is a French musician who is best known for his work on the soundtrack for the film Amelie. His music is mostly instrumental, pepper with unconventional instruments such as harpsicord, toy piano, typewriter, vibraphone. Besides the Amelie soundtrack, my other favorites are Goodbye Lenin! and C'était Ici.
Reasons to love Yann Tiersen
My first taste of Yann Tiersen's music: Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain
If you haven't check out Yann Tiersen's music, I suggest you get the Amelie soundtrack first, even if you haven't seen the movie. This soundtrack has become my go-to music, especially at time when I feel sluggish. When I was living in Washington DC, I listened to this Parisian soundtrack during my walk to work. That music always makes everything looks and feels like Paris -- even when I was trying to walk through snow packed sidewalks during the frigid winter. I even cook to that music -- everything I do becomes less of a chore.
My favorite live album from Yann Tiersen
Yann Tiersen - C'Etait Ici
This double live CD is nothing short of amazing. The majority of Amelie music in on there, as well as some of the best instrumental pieces and vocals in French and English. This album is actually a good introduction to Tiersen's other work besides Amelie. With 29 songs on this album it is an absolute bargain.
My favorite pieces from Yann Tiersen - In no particular order
If you have not listen to any of his other stuff before, give these a try. Scroll around and play "Sur Le Fil". I have had the pleasure of attending his show during his 2010 tour and this song blew everyone away. The chilling violin solo had everyone holding their breath till the very last note.
My snapshot of Yann Tiersen during his 2010 tour
Check out Yann Tiersen's latest album
Dust Lane, a cinematic orchestral pop record that recalls the swagger of classic Serge Gainsbourg, the bravura of early Eno and the faded music-hall grandeur of Brits like Pulp and Divine Comedy as it veers from sunny folk-inspired songs to full choir workouts.
So you wanna play like Yann Tiersen
Yann Tiersen - Six pieces pour piano - Volume 2
This is the only copy of Yann Tiersen sheet music available for sale that I can find. It contains:
Comptine D'Un Autre Ete: L'Apres Midi
Le Moulin
La Dispute
Sur Le Fil
La Valse D'Amelie
Comptine D'Ete No. 2
It's a bit pricey because it is an French import. Nonetheless, every single one of those pieces are well worth the price. Once you mastered them, they are so much fun and fulfilling to play. I think they are suitable for intermediate level pianists. Having some Yann TIersen in your repertoire will definitely impress your friends.
