Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Nikolai Medtner's piano compositions with the release "Medtner: Arabesques, Dithyrambs, Elegies & Other Short Piano Works." This two-disc collection, released by Hyperion in February 2012, showcases the brilliance of Medtner's shorter piano works, performed exquisitely by pianist Hamish Milne.
Spanning a duration of 2 hours and 37 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through Medtner's diverse musical styles and periods. The tracklist features a variety of pieces, including the intricate "Stimmungsbilder" (Mood Pictures), the playful "Arabesques," the dramatic "Dithyrambs," and the poignant "Elegies." Each composition is a testament to Medtner's unique ability to blend technical virtuosity with deep emotional expression.
Recorded at the Henry Wood Hall in London, the album benefits from the exceptional acoustics of the venue and the meticulous production by Jeremy Hayes and engineering by Ben Connellan. The studio recordings capture the nuanced performances with clarity and precision, allowing the listener to appreciate the full depth and range of Medtner's compositions.
Whether you are a longtime admirer of classical piano music or a newcomer to Medtner's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The diverse selection of pieces, ranging from the lyrical and introspective to the energetic and virtuosic, highlights the breadth of Medtner's musical genius. Hamish Milne's sensitive and dynamic interpretations bring these works to life, making this album a standout in the classical piano repertoire.
Vinylscout