Alkan: 11 Pièces dans le style religieux, Op. 72, Étude Alla-Barbaro

Dive into the profound and intricate world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with this captivating album, featuring his iconic "11 Pièces dans le style religieux, Op. 72" and the virtuosic "Étude Alla-Barbaro." This collection, performed by the accomplished pianist Mark Viner, showcases Alkan's unparalleled technical prowess and deep spiritual insight, reflecting his serious scholarly pursuits in Jewish learning and ancient biblical texts.

The album opens with the "11 Pièces dans le style religieux, Op. 72," a series of pieces that blend religious themes with Alkan's distinctive pianistic style. Each piece, from the precise "Tempo Giustissimo" to the serene "Dolcemente," offers a unique exploration of religious motifs, demonstrating Alkan's mastery of both composition and performance. The collection also includes a transcription from Handel's "Messiah," adding a layer of historical and musical depth.

Following this, the album presents the "Étude Alla-Barbaro," a piece known for its technical demands and rhythmic complexity. This study, along with an additional "Etude from the Encyclopédie du pianiste," highlights Alkan's innovative approach to piano technique and composition.

Recorded in 2022 and released under the Piano Classics label, this album spans a duration of one hour, providing a comprehensive journey through Alkan's religious and technical explorations. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the genius of Charles-Valentin Alkan and the skill of Mark Viner.

Charles-Valentin Alkan, born in Paris in 1813, was a virtuoso pianist and composer whose name should be as celebrated as those of his contemporaries, Frédéric Chopin and Franz Liszt. During the 1830s and 1840s, Alkan was one of the most renowned pianists in Paris, his hometown, where he spent nearly his entire life. His piano works are notoriously demanding, yet they also possess a unique brilliance and joy that sets them apart. Alkan's compositions are a testament to his extraordinary keyboard technique and his original, individual voice. Often described as a 'conservative radical,' his music blends innovative ideas with a deep respect for classical traditions. Despite his legendary status, Alkan remains somewhat obscure, making his rediscovery a thrilling journey for any classical piano enthusiast. His works, once shrouded in darkness, now gleam with a fierce, unmistakable brilliance that continues to captivate and inspire.