Emil Gilels, a name synonymous with virtuosity and profound musical insight, is celebrated in "Emil Gilels 100, Vol. 49," a captivating collection of his masterful piano performances. Released on January 1, 2016, under the esteemed label JSC "Firma Melodiya," this album spans a rich tapestry of classical piano compositions, showcasing Gilels' unparalleled technical brilliance and emotional depth.
The album opens with a suite of pieces from Alexander Scriabin's Op. 32, including the playful "Scherzo" and the intricate "Fughette," demonstrating Gilels' ability to navigate complex compositions with ease. Mendelssohn's "Song Without Words" offers a moment of serene reflection, while the "Three Etudes" by Scriabin highlight Gilels' precision and control.
The centerpiece of the album is undoubtedly Scriabin's "Piano Sonata No. 3 in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 23," a work that Gilels performs with a dramatic intensity and nuanced expression. The sonata's four movements, from the tumultuous "Drammàtico" to the fiery "Presto con fuoco," reveal Gilels' profound understanding of Scriabin's intricate musical language.
The album concludes with Scriabin's "Five Preludes, Op. 74," a set of pieces that range from the hauntingly beautiful "Douloureux, dechirant" to the bold and assertive "Fier, belliqueux." These preludes, along with the "Piano Sonata No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 28," provide a fitting finale to this remarkable collection.
Clocking in at just under an hour, "Emil Gilels 100, Vol. 49" is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the 20th century's greatest pianists. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through some of the most evocative and technically demanding works in the piano repertoire.
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