"055 20th Century Essentials": Water Drop

"055 20th Century Essentials": Water Drop by Paquita Madriguera is a captivating journey through a century of musical brilliance, meticulously curated and performed by the virtuoso pianist Paquita Madriguera. Spanning an impressive three hours and twenty minutes, this album is a testament to Madriguera's extraordinary range and versatility, showcasing her mastery of both classical and contemporary repertoire.

The album opens with the delicate and introspective "Balada de Terciopelo" and "Musica Callada: I. Angelico," setting the tone for a collection that is as much a exploration of moods and atmospheres as it is a display of technical prowess. Madriguera's interpretations are nuanced and deeply personal, breathing new life into well-known works like Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite" and Chopin's "Preludes," as well as lesser-known gems like "Haurren Irudiak" and "Lose Blätter."

The album's centerpiece, "Water Drop, Op. 139," is a hauntingly beautiful solo piano piece that showcases Madriguera's ability to convey profound emotion with seemingly effortless grace. The album also features a number of arrangements for solo piano, including works by Tausig, Liszt, and Backhaus, demonstrating Madriguera's skill in adapting and interpreting music originally written for other instruments or ensembles.

In addition to the solo piano works, the album also includes a number of pieces performed on historic player pianos, including the Duo-Art and Welte-Mignon systems. These performances offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the unique sound and character of these early recording technologies.

Throughout the album, Madriguera's playing is characterized by a remarkable sensitivity to the nuances of each piece, as well as a deep understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which they were written. The result is a collection that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving, offering something for listeners of all tastes and backgrounds.

"055 20th Century Essentials": Water Drop is a landmark achievement by one of the most exciting and innovative pianists of our time. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.