In her debut album, "Alexandra Dariescu Plays Schumann, Liszt, and Chopin," Romanian pianist Alexandra Dariescu delivers a captivating recital that showcases her exceptional technique and interpretative skill. Released in July 2012 under Champs Hill Records, this 53-minute collection features a diverse range of works from three of the most celebrated composers in classical music history.
The album opens with Schumann's "Variations on the Name Abegg, Op. 1 in F Major," a piece that demonstrates Dariescu's ability to navigate intricate variations with precision and clarity. She then transitions into Liszt's "Ballade No. 2 in B Minor, S. 171," a work that highlights her expressive and dynamic playing. The album also includes Wagner's "Isolde's Liebestod" from "Tristan und Isolde," a dramatic and emotionally charged piece that Dariescu performs with remarkable sensitivity.
Chopin's "Grande Polonaise Brillante, Op. 22" is another standout track, with Dariescu's virtuosic playing bringing out the brilliance and grandeur of the piece. The album concludes with Liszt's "Ballade No. 4, Op. 52 in F Minor," a work that showcases Dariescu's technical prowess and musical depth.
Throughout the album, Dariescu's playing is characterized by a rich and nuanced tone, as well as a keen sense of phrasing and dynamics. Her interpretations are both respectful of the composers' intentions and infused with her own unique artistic vision. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Alexandra Dariescu's debut album is sure to impress and inspire.