George Walker, a towering figure in American music, presents a captivating collection of works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Robert Schumann in his 1997 album "George Walker Plays Bach, Schumann." This 57-minute journey through the keyboard repertoire showcases Walker's virtuosity and deep musical insight.
The album opens with Bach's Prelude and Fugue in D Major from the Well-Tempered Clavier, demonstrating Walker's precise and articulate touch. The centerpiece of the album is Schumann's Kreisleriana, a cycle of eight pieces that explore a range of emotions and moods. Walker's sensitive and expressive playing brings out the poetic and introspective qualities of these works.
The album also features Chopin's Etudes, showcasing Walker's technical prowess and musical depth. The Nocturne in F Sharp Major, Op. 15, No. 2, is a highlight, with its lyrical melody and delicate phrasing. The album concludes with Bach's Toccata, a virtuosic display of Walker's command of the keyboard.
Walker's playing is characterized by its clarity, precision, and expressive depth. His interpretations are informed by a deep understanding of the musical language of each composer, and his performances are always engaging and insightful. This album is a testament to Walker's artistry and his enduring legacy as one of the great pianists of our time.
Vinylscout