Immerse yourself in the world of 19th-century operatic brilliance with Franz Liszt's "Liszt & Thalberg: Opera Transcriptions & Fantasies." This captivating album, released on August 28, 2020, under the Hyperion label, showcases the virtuosity of Franz Liszt, a titan of the piano world, alongside his contemporary, Sigismund Thalberg. Recorded in May 2019 at the Teldex Studio in Berlin, this collection is a testament to the art of transcription and fantasy, featuring works inspired by beloved operas.
The album spans a rich 75 minutes, offering a diverse range of pieces that highlight the technical prowess and creative genius of Liszt and Thalberg. From the intricate variations of the "Hexaméron" on themes from Bellini's "I Puritani" to the grand fantasies on motifs from operas like Donizetti's "Don Pasquale" and Bellini's "Norma," each track is a masterclass in piano performance. Collaborating composers include Frederic Chopin, Johann Peter Pixis, Carl Czerny, and Henri Herz, adding layers of depth and variety to the album.
Produced by Andrew Keener and engineered by Arne Akselberg and Marc-André Hamelin, the recording quality is impeccable, allowing the nuances of Liszt's playing to shine through. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through the operatic fantasies of two of the most celebrated pianist-composers of their time.
Vinylscout