Immerse yourself in the rich, vibrant sounds of Spanish classical music with Leonard Pennario's captivating album, "Lecuona: Andalucía / Albéniz: Cantas De España." This exquisite collection, released on November 1, 2007, under the Naxos Classical Archives label, showcases Pennario's mastery of the piano and his deep connection to the Spanish musical tradition.
The album is a beautifully curated selection of works by two prominent Spanish composers, Ernesto Lecuona and Isaac Albéniz. Lecuona's "Andalucía, Suite Espagnole" is a six-movement suite that paints a vivid musical portrait of the Andalusian region, with each piece evoking the spirit and character of a different location or aspect of Andalusian life. From the majestic "Córdoba" to the lively "Malagueña," Pennario's performances are both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
The second half of the album features Albéniz's "Chant d'Espagne, Op. 232," a five-movement suite that explores various aspects of Spanish music and culture. Pennario's interpretations are marked by their sensitivity and nuance, bringing out the unique character of each piece, from the evocative "Prélude" to the lively "Seguidillas."
With a total runtime of just under 40 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Spanish classical piano music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Leonard Pennario's "Lecuona: Andalucía / Albéniz: Cantas De España" is sure to delight and inspire.