Debussy: Suite Bergamasque; Ravel: Sonatine, Valses Nobles et Sentimentales & Alborada del Gracioso

Album Description

Leon Fleisher, a renowned American pianist of his time, presents a captivating collection of classical piano works in this 1959 album. The recording features compositions by Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel, showcasing Fleisher's exceptional skill and artistry.

The album opens with Debussy's enchanting "Suite Bergamasque," a suite of four movements that evoke the charm and elegance of 18th-century Italy. The suite includes the famous "Clair de Lune," a piece known for its serene and dreamy atmosphere.

Following the "Suite Bergamasque," the album delves into Ravel's works, beginning with the "Sonatine," a three-movement piece that demonstrates Ravel's unique blend of lyricism and rhythmic complexity. The album then continues with Ravel's "Valses Nobles et Sentimentales," a set of eight waltzes that explore a range of emotions and moods, from the lively and energetic to the introspective and melancholic.

The album concludes with Ravel's "Alborada del Gracioso," the fourth movement from his suite "Miroirs." This piece is a lively and colorful depiction of a Spanish morning serenade, showcasing Fleisher's technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

Throughout the album, Leon Fleisher's playing is marked by its clarity, precision, and expressive depth. His interpretations of these well-known works offer a fresh perspective, highlighting the nuances and subtleties of the compositions. This recording is a testament to Fleisher's enduring legacy as one of the most distinguished pianists of the 20th century.

1 januari 1959

Originally released 1959 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

About Leon Fleisher

Leon Fleisher, born in San Francisco in 1928, was an American classical piano virtuoso, conductor, and esteemed pedagogue, renowned for his profound musical intelligence and refined artistry. Fleisher began his piano journey at the tender age of four, and by nine, his prodigious talent was already evident. His career took a significant turn when he met conductor George Szell in the mid-1940s, marking the beginning of a legendary artistic collaboration.

Fleisher's career was marked by both triumph and challenge. He rose to prominence as a child prodigy in the 1940s, but in his 30s, he faced a sudden and mysterious loss of function in his right hand, which temporarily halted his piano career. However, Fleisher's resilience and adaptability led him to explore conducting and teaching, where he continued to inspire generations of musicians.

Throughout his life, Fleisher was celebrated for his thoughtful and transcendent approach to music, using his formidable technique to present the music itself with clarity and depth. His legacy as one of the most refined and transcendent musicians the United States has ever produced endures, inspiring both classical enthusiasts and aspiring pianists alike.