メトネル：室内楽作品集 I

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Nikolai Medtner with this captivating collection of chamber works. Released on February 22, 2019, under the EXTON label, this album spans a generous 75 minutes, offering a deep dive into the composer's intimate and expressive style. Medtner, a virtuoso pianist and composer of the early 20th century, presents a unique blend of Romanticism and a touch of the French influence reminiscent of César Franck.

This album, titled "メトネル：室内楽作品集 I," features a selection of Medtner's most compelling compositions for violin and piano. The tracklist includes his Three Nocturnes, Op. 16, and two Violin Sonatas, Op. 21 and Op. 44, each showcasing Medtner's mastery of melody and his penchant for intricate, yet accessible, musical structures. The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful Nocturnes, setting a contemplative mood that carries through to the more dynamic and virtuosic Violin Sonatas.

Medtner's compositions are known for their lyrical depth and technical brilliance, making this album a treasure trove for both casual listeners and classical aficionados. The performances on this album are meticulously crafted, highlighting the intricate interplay between the violin and piano, and bringing Medtner's compositions to life with vivid clarity. Whether you're familiar with Medtner's work or discovering it for the first time, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Nikolai Medtner, a towering figure in the world of classical piano, was a Russian composer and pianist whose music continues to captivate audiences with its intricate beauty and lyrical depth. Born in Moscow in 1880, Medtner was a contemporary of Sergei Rachmaninoff and Alexander Scriabin, and his works often draw comparisons to theirs, yet his unique voice stands out with its rich harmonies and complex counterpoint. Medtner's compositions, which include 14 piano sonatas, three piano concertos, and a wealth of songs and chamber music, are deeply rooted in late-Romantic traditions, eschewing modernist trends in favor of classical structures and symbolic expression.

Medtner's life was marked by significant upheaval, including the Bolshevik Revolution, which led him to seek refuge in London in 1936. Despite periods of obscurity, his music has seen a resurgence in recognition, and he is now celebrated as one of the most significant Russian composers for the piano. Medtner's works, characterized by their aristocratic refinement and sometimes tragic depth, offer a journey through the emotional landscape of the human experience, making them a must-explore for any classical music enthusiast.