Alexis Weissenberg, the celebrated Bulgarian-French pianist, presents an extraordinary collection of classical piano masterpieces in his album "Steel and Soul," set to release on July 23, 2025, under Warner Classics. This album is a testament to Weissenberg's virtuosity and his deep connection with the piano, offering a diverse and captivating journey through the works of some of the most revered composers in classical music.
Spanning three hours and nine minutes, the album features a meticulously curated selection of pieces, showcasing Weissenberg's technical prowess and emotional depth. From the intricate fugues of Bach to the lyrical elegance of Chopin, and the dramatic intensity of Rachmaninov, each track is a showcase of Weissenberg's ability to bring out the essence of each composition.
Highlights include Bach's "Toccata and Fugue in D Minor," transcribed for piano by Busoni, Chopin's poignant "Nocturne No. 21 in C Minor," and Rachmaninov's powerful "Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor." The album also features lesser-known gems like Franck's "Prélude, Fugue et Variation" and Debussy's "Étude No. 11, Pour les arpèges composés," demonstrating Weissenberg's versatility and his commitment to exploring the full range of the piano repertoire.
Weissenberg's interpretation of Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" is particularly noteworthy, offering a fresh perspective on this well-loved suite. His rendition of Ravel's "Le Tombeau de Couperin" is another standout, showcasing his ability to convey both the technical complexity and the emotional depth of these compositions.
"Steel and Soul" is not just a collection of individual pieces but a cohesive whole, reflecting Weissenberg's unique artistic vision. His playing is characterized by a remarkable blend of precision and passion, making this album a must-listen for both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a fan of the classics or looking to discover the beauty of classical piano music, Alexis Weissenberg's "Steel and Soul" promises an unforgettable listening experience.
Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade IModest Mussorgsky, Alexis Weissenberg
Bach, JS: Flute Sonata in E-Flat Major, BWV 1031: II. Siciliano (Transcr. Lüstner for Piano)Johann Sebastian Bach, Alexis Weissenberg
Saint-Saëns: Le carnaval des animaux: VII. AquariumCamille Saint-Saëns, Georges Prêtre, Aldo Ciccolini, Alexis Weissenberg, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Chopin: Nocturne No. 21 in C Minor, Op. Posth.Frédéric Chopin, Alexis Weissenberg
Chopin: Waltz No. 10 in B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2Frédéric Chopin, Alexis Weissenberg
Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30: I. Allegro ma non tanto (Excerpt)Sergei Rachmaninoff, Alexis Weissenberg, Orchestre National De France, Leonard Bernstein
Bach, JS: Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147: No. 10, Choral. "Jesus bleibet meine Freude" (Transcr. Hess)Johann Sebastian Bach, Alexis Weissenberg
Liszt: Valse-Impromptu in A-Flat Major, S. 213Franz Liszt, Alexis Weissenberg
Alexis Weissenberg, born in Bulgaria to a Jewish family in 1929, was a French pianist whose career was marked by both critical acclaim and controversy. Beginning his piano studies at the tender age of three, Weissenberg's prodigious talent quickly became apparent. His dynamic and forceful playing style earned him comparisons to historical figures, with some hailing him as one of the greatest performers of the 20th century. Weissenberg's recordings, particularly of works like Rachmaninoff's Third Piano Concerto, are cherished by classical music enthusiasts worldwide. His career saw dramatic highs, including a comeback performance with Herbert von Karajan, and his legacy continues to inspire and divide audiences with his intense and captivating interpretations.
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Alexis Weissenberg
