Lopes-Graça: Piano Works

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Portuguese music with "Lopes-Graça: Piano Works" by Fernando Lopes-Graça. This captivating album, released on CapriccioNR in 2014, offers a comprehensive journey through the stylistic evolution of one of Portugal's most influential composers, conductors, and musicologists. Spanning a remarkable forty years of Lopes-Graça's career, the collection features 29 tracks that beautifully showcase his deep connection to Portuguese folk music and his innovative approach to modernist composition.

The album begins with the enchanting "9 Danças breves," a series of nine short dances that highlight Lopes-Graça's early influences and his ability to blend traditional Portuguese melodies with contemporary classical techniques. Following this, the "Variações sobre um tema popular português, Op. 1" demonstrates his mastery of transforming folk themes into sophisticated musical narratives. The "Piano Sonata No. 2, Op. 26" showcases his more mature style, with its intricate structures and emotional depth.

The centerpiece of the album is the expansive "Ao fio dos anos e das horas," a suite of sixteen movements that encapsulates Lopes-Graça's diverse musical language. From the delicate "Larghetto" to the fiery "Con fuoco," this work is a testament to his ability to convey a wide range of emotions and moods through the piano.

Performed by the acclaimed pianist Artur Pizarro, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage of Portuguese classical music. Lopes-Graça's works, though less familiar to some, are a vital part of the twentieth-century piano repertoire, and this recording is a compelling introduction to his unique voice. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical music or a curious newcomer, "Lopes-Graça: Piano Works" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.