Alfredo Casella: Scarlattiana / Pupazzetti / Pagine di guerra / Sonatina / Canzone a ballo / Cocktail's Dance / Ninna nanna / Quattro favole romanesche / Tre canzoni trecentesche

Immerse yourself in the rich musical tapestry of Alfredo Casella's diverse compositions, presented in this captivating album released on August 10, 2009, by La Bottega Discantica. Spanning a little over an hour and eighteen minutes, this neoclassical collection showcases Casella's versatility and mastery across various forms and moods.

The album opens with "Scarlattiana," a delightful divertimento based on the music of Domenico Scarlatti, performed by piano and a small orchestra. This suite of five movements—Sinfonía, Minuetto, Capriccio, Pastorale, and Finale—offers a playful and inventive exploration of Scarlatti's themes.

Following this is "Pupazzetti," a charming work for chamber orchestra, and "Pagine di guerra," a powerful four-hand piano suite that vividly depicts scenes from World War I. Each movement paints a vivid picture, from the heavy artillery in Belgium to the Cossack cavalry charge in Russia.

Casella's pianistic prowess is further showcased in the "Sonatina" Op. 28, a three-movement work that balances technical brilliance with lyrical beauty. The playful "Canzone a ballo" Op. 47 and the witty "Cocktail's Dance" offer lighter fare, while the tender "Ninna nanna" Op. 47 provides a moment of quiet reflection.

The album also features Casella's settings of Romanesque fables by Trilussa, "Quattro favole romanesche," and three 14th-century Italian songs, "Tre canzoni trecentesche," both for voice and piano. These works highlight Casella's gift for storytelling and his deep connection to Italian musical traditions.

Whether you're a longtime admirer of Casella or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling journey through the composer's diverse and engaging output.