Alkan: The 4 Ages

Immerse yourself in the virtuosic world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with "Alkan: The 4 Ages," a captivating exploration of the French composer's piano masterpieces. Released in 2010 on Daphne Records, this album offers a unique journey through Alkan's musical genius, showcasing his technical brilliance and profound compositional skills.

The centerpiece of the album is the Grande Sonate, Op. 33, "Les quatre âges" (The Four Ages), a monumental work that delves into the human experience across four decades. Each movement—from the youthful "20 ans" to the reflective "50 ans"—offers a distinct musical narrative, providing a rich tapestry of emotions and introspection. Alkan's innovative use of harmony and rhythm creates a compelling portrait of life's journey, making this sonata a standout piece in the piano repertoire.

In addition to the sonata, the album features a selection of Alkan's 12 Études dans les tons mineurs, Op. 39, and his Symphony for Solo Piano. These works further demonstrate Alkan's mastery of the piano, with each piece pushing the boundaries of technical difficulty and musical expression. The Symphony, in particular, is a tour de force, showcasing Alkan's ability to create symphonic textures and structures on a single instrument.

Charles-Valentin Alkan, often referred to as "the Berlioz of the piano" by Hans von Bülow, was a virtuoso pianist and composer whose works have only recently gained the recognition they deserve. This album provides a rare opportunity to experience the depth and complexity of Alkan's piano compositions, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. With a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, "Alkan: The 4 Ages" is a testament to Alkan's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of classical piano music.

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.