Alkan: Genius-Enigma

Dive into the world of Charles-Valentin Alkan, a French composer and virtuoso pianist whose genius is often overshadowed but never forgotten. This three-disc collection, "Alkan: Genius-Enigma," offers a comprehensive exploration of Alkan's piano repertoire, showcasing his technical brilliance and compositional prowess. Released on Piano Classics, this album spans an impressive three hours and thirty-eight minutes, featuring a variety of genres within the classical piano spectrum.

The album begins with the intricate "Études dans tous les tons mineurs, Op. 39," a series of seven studies that demonstrate Alkan's mastery of minor keys and his penchant for technical virtuosity. Each étude is a testament to his compositional skill, ranging from the swift "Comme le vent" to the haunting "Marche funèbre." Following this, the "Trois morceaux dans le genre pathétique, Op. 15" offers a more introspective look into Alkan's emotional depth, with pieces like "Aime-moi" and "Morte" showcasing his ability to evoke profound feelings through music.

The collection continues with the second set of "Études dans tous les tons mineurs, Op. 39," further exploring Alkan's technical prowess and compositional ingenuity. The "Grande sonate 'Les quatre âges', Op. 33" is a highlight, depicting the stages of life with remarkable musical storytelling. The "Sonatine in A Minor, Op. 61" and "3 Grandes études, Op. 76" round out the collection, offering a blend of technical challenge and musical beauty.

Charles-Valentin Alkan's music is known for its difficulty, often compared to the virtuosity of Liszt. This album is a testament to his genius, featuring works that are as challenging to play as they are beautiful to listen to. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Alkan: Genius-Enigma" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

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.