Louis Kentner, a renowned pianist known for his exquisite interpretations of classical and romantic repertoire, presents a captivating album featuring works by Balakirev and Liszt. Recorded between 1938 and 1951, this collection showcases Kentner's mastery and the depth of his musical insight.
The album opens with Balakirev's Piano Sonata, a piece that, despite being less frequently performed, is brought to life with Kentner's superb artistry. The sonata's opening movement is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating Kentner's ability to convey the piece's emotional depth and complexity.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Liszt's "Après une lecture du Dante," a dramatic and evocative work inspired by Dante's "Divine Comedy." Kentner's interpretation is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the essence of Liszt's composition and the intensity of Dante's poetry.
In addition to these major works, the album includes a variety of shorter pieces by Liszt, such as "En rêve" (Nocturne), "Bolero, Op. 19," and selections from "Supplément aux Années de pèlerinage, Year 2, S. 162 'Venezia e Napoli'." These pieces showcase Kentner's versatility and his ability to bring out the unique character of each composition.
The album was released on September 1, 2007, by Naxos and has a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It is a testament to Louis Kentner's enduring legacy as one of the most distinguished pianists of the 20th century, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for classical music enthusiasts.
Vinylscout