Isaac Albéniz, a Spanish composer and pianist, takes center stage in this captivating collection of his piano works, released under the title "Albéniz: Piano Music" on June 3, 2014, by Naxos. This album offers a rich tapestry of classical piano music, spanning a variety of styles and moods, from the elegant and refined to the lively and spirited.
The album features a diverse range of pieces, including the enchanting "Suite ancienne No. 3" with its delicate "Minuetto" and lively "Gavotta," and the four-movement "Piano Sonata No. 5 in G-Flat Major, Op. 82," showcasing Albéniz's mastery of form and expression. The collection also includes several shorter pieces, such as the playful "Diva sin par, mazurka" and the spirited "Balbina Valverde, polka," offering a delightful contrast to the more substantial works.
One of the highlights of the album is the "Reves, Op. 101" suite, which includes the soothing "Berceuse," the whimsical "Scherzino," and the tender "Chant d'amour." These pieces demonstrate Albéniz's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music. The album also features several pieces inspired by Spanish folk music, such as the "Serenata arabe," "Cadix-gaditana," and "Zambra granadina," which showcase Albéniz's deep connection to his cultural roots.
The album concludes with three improvisations transcribed by M.R. Laufer, offering a glimpse into Albéniz's spontaneous and inventive musical mind. These pieces, along with the rest of the album, provide a comprehensive overview of Albéniz's early compositional style and his enduring contribution to the classical piano repertoire.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights, perfect for both casual listeners and devoted fans of classical piano music.
Vinylscout