Immerse yourself in the masterful piano artistry of Maurizio Pollini with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2001, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This album is a testament to Pollini's virtuosity and his deep understanding of both classical and contemporary piano repertoire.
The first half of the album features Claude Debussy's iconic "12 Études," a set of technical and musical challenges that Pollini navigates with breathtaking skill. Each étude is a study in a particular piano technique, from scales and arpeggios to rapid repetition and complex harmonies. Pollini's precise and nuanced playing brings out the unique character of each piece, making this a compelling exploration of Debussy's innovative piano writing.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Pierre Boulez's "Piano Sonata No. 2," a complex and demanding work that showcases Pollini's prowess in contemporary music. Boulez, a champion of Pollini's, wrote this sonata in 1948, and it remains a staple of the modern piano repertoire. Pollini's performance is a thrilling journey through the sonata's intricate rhythms and harmonies, demonstrating his technical brilliance and musical insight.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a classical piano enthusiast or simply appreciate exceptional musicianship, this album is sure to delight. Maurizio Pollini's interpretations of these challenging works are a testament to his status as one of the world's leading pianists.
Vinylscout