Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Kenneth Leighton's piano compositions with this exquisite album, released on the prestigious Chandos label. This collection showcases Leighton's mastery of the piano, featuring a blend of sonatas, preludes, and evocative suites that highlight his unique voice in 20th-century classical music.
The album opens with the Piano Sonata, Op. 64, a work that Leighton completed in 1972, nearly two decades after his last sonata for the instrument. This sonata is a testament to Leighton's evolving style and technical prowess, offering a rich and engaging listening experience. Following this, the album presents five preludes, each a miniature masterpiece that demonstrates Leighton's ability to convey depth and nuance within a concise form.
One of the standout features of this album is the premiere recording of "Winter Scenes," a suite that captures the essence of the season through seven vivid and atmospheric movements. This work, along with the Sonata No. 3, Op. 27, showcases Leighton's growing mastery of piano technique and his ability to create evocative and compelling music.
The album concludes with the Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 27, another premiere recording that further illustrates Leighton's skill and innovation. Throughout the album, Leighton's compositions are brought to life by the sensitive and expressive playing of Margaret Fingerhut, making this a truly memorable and enjoyable collection for fans of classical piano music.