Alkan: Sonata "Les quatre ages"

Immerse yourself in the virtuoso world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with this comprehensive collection of his piano works. Released in 2006 by Brilliant Classics, this album spans over two hours and eighteen minutes, offering a deep dive into the composer's intricate and demanding compositions.

At the heart of this album is Alkan's monumental "Grande Sonate, Op. 33 'Les quatre Âges'," a sprawling four-movement work that explores the stages of human life. From the youthful exuberance of "20 Ans" to the reflective "50 Ans," each movement is a testament to Alkan's compositional genius and technical prowess. This sonata alone makes this album an essential exploration of Alkan's most ambitious and personal works.

Beyond the sonata, the album showcases a wide range of Alkan's styles and influences. From the lyrical beauty of "Esquisses, Op. 63" to the technical brilliance of "Douze études dans toutes les tons mineurs en deux suites, Op. 39," each piece offers a unique perspective on Alkan's artistic vision. The inclusion of lesser-known works like "Le tambour bat aux champs, Op. 50bis" and "Les mois, Op. 74" provides a comprehensive overview of Alkan's output, highlighting his versatility and innovation.

Charles-Valentin Alkan was a pianist and composer of extraordinary talent, often overshadowed by his contemporaries. This album serves as a powerful reminder of his enduring legacy, offering both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to his music a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're drawn to the technical virtuosity of his études or the lyrical charm of his songs, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.

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.