Embark on a captivating journey through the romantic and impressionistic landscapes of Russian classical music with Juan Francisco Otón's latest album, "Eclipse: Piano Works by Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, Rachmaninoff and Medtner." Released on October 4, 2022, under the Novus Promusica label, this 39-minute collection showcases Otón's virtuosic prowess and deep affinity for the piano repertoire of these celebrated composers.
The album opens with a delicate Nocturno from Tchaikovsky's Op. 19, setting the stage for a diverse exploration of styles and moods. Rimsky-Korsakov's Valse Sentimentale from Op. 51 offers a waltz-like elegance, while Medtner's Pesenka, a little song in Dorian mode, provides a unique folk-inspired contrast. Otón's interpretations of Rachmaninoff's Preludes from Op. 23 and Op. 32 are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the composer's signature lyrical depth and harmonic richness.
The album also features lesser-known gems, such as Medtner's Canzona Serenata from Forgotten Melodies I, Op. 38, and his two piano pieces, including a Prelude-Impromptu and a Mazurka. Otón's nuanced phrasing and dynamic control bring these pieces to life, revealing their emotional and technical complexities.
Throughout the album, Otón's playing is marked by a keen sensitivity to the composers' individual voices and a deep understanding of the piano's expressive capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Eclipse" offers a compelling introduction to the piano works of these Russian masters, as interpreted by one of today's most promising pianists.
Vinylscout