Klara Kormendi presents a captivating collection of contemporary classical piano works with her album "Boulez: Piano Sonatas Nos. 1 and 3 / Messiaen: Canteyodjaya / Berio: Rounds." Released on July 15, 2014, under the Hungaroton label, this album spans nearly an hour of intricate and expressive performances that showcase Kormendi's technical prowess and artistic sensitivity.
The album features a diverse program, beginning with Pierre Boulez's Piano Sonata No. 1 and No. 3, which are known for their complex structures and demanding passages. Kormendi navigates these works with precision and clarity, bringing out the intellectual and emotional depth of Boulez's compositions. The sonatas are followed by Olivier Messiaen's "Cantéyodjayâ," a piece inspired by Indian rhythms and scales, which Kormendi interprets with a sense of wonder and spiritual resonance.
Luciano Berio's "Rounds" rounds out the program, offering a playful and inventive contrast to the more serious works. Kormendi's performance is lively and engaging, highlighting the piece's rhythmic vitality and melodic charm.
Throughout the album, Kormendi's playing is marked by a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of the composers' intentions. Her dynamic range and expressive phrasing bring these modern classics to life, making this album a rewarding listen for fans of contemporary classical music.
Vinylscout