2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition: Preliminary Round - Mariangela Vacatello

Mariangela Vacatello's 2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition: Preliminary Round showcases her exceptional talent and versatility as a classical pianist. Released on June 22, 2009, under the Van Cliburn Foundation label, this album is a captivating collection of piano masterpieces that span a variety of styles and periods.

The album opens with Joseph Haydn's Sonata in C Major, Hob.XVI:50, a charming and elegant work that demonstrates Vacatello's technical precision and musical sensitivity. Following this, she presents a set of Ten Variations on a Prelude by Chopin, displaying her ability to interpret and embellish the composer's intricate and expressive melodies.

The album also features Franz Liszt's Transcendental Etude No. 10 in F Minor, "Appassionata," a virtuosic piece that showcases Vacatello's dazzling technique and emotional depth. Additionally, she performs three movements from Igor Stravinsky's "Petrushka," offering a glimpse into her ability to tackle modernist works with clarity and finesse.

Throughout the album, Vacatello's playing is marked by a keen sense of phrasing, dynamics, and articulation, making this a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. With a total runtime of 46 minutes, this album is a testament to Mariangela Vacatello's artistry and her impressive performance in the preliminary round of the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.