Halffter: The Piano Music

Ernesto Halffter's "Halffter: The Piano Music" is a captivating journey through the Spanish composer's diverse and evocative piano works. Released on November 1, 2009, by Nimbus Records, this album spans a rich hour and nineteen minutes of Halffter's compositions, offering a comprehensive exploration of his musical genius.

The album features a variety of pieces, from the lively "Espagnolade" and "March joyeuse" to the introspective "Crepúsculos" and "Nocturno otoñal 'Recordando a Chopin'". Each track showcases Halffter's unique ability to blend Spanish folk influences with classical forms, creating a sound that is both deeply rooted and innovatively fresh.

Notable works include the "Piano Sonata", a testament to Halffter's mastery of the sonata form, and the "Three Dances from the Ballet Sonatina", which bring a sense of theatricality and charm to the collection. The album also includes several homages, such as "Homenaje a Domenico Scarlatti", "Homenaje a Rodolfo Halffter", "Homenaje a Federico Mompou", and "Homenaje a Joaquin Turina", highlighting Halffter's reverence for his musical predecessors and contemporaries.

"Halffter: The Piano Music" is a must-listen for fans of Spanish classical music and piano enthusiasts alike. It provides a profound insight into the creative mind of Ernesto Halffter, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection.