Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical piano with Leopold Godowsky's "Johann Strauss Transcriptions & Other Waltzes." Released on August 1, 2008, under the Hyperion label, this album is a captivating exploration of Godowsky's intricate and virtuosic transcriptions of themes by Johann Strauss II. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, the album features a collection of 14 tracks that showcase Godowsky's extraordinary skill in reimagining Strauss's compositions for the piano.
The album opens with "Symphonische Metamorphosen Johann Strauss’scher Themen: I. Künstlerleben," a piece that sets the stage for the intricate and nuanced interpretations that follow. Highlights include "Walzermasken: II. Pastell," "Walzermasken: XXIV. Portrait—Joh. Str.," and "Symphonische Metamorphosen Johann Strauss’scher Themen: II. Die Fledermaus," each offering a unique perspective on Strauss's original works. The album also features selections from "Triakontameron," including "IV. Rendezvous" and "XXI. The Salon," which add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the collection.
Recorded in December 2007 at the Henry Wood Hall in London, this album benefits from the expertise of producer Andrew Keener and engineer Simon Eadon, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Johann Strauss Transcriptions & Other Waltzes" offers a rich and rewarding exploration of Godowsky's artistic genius.