メトネルの時間

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Nikolai Medtner with "メトネルの時間," a captivating collection of his piano works released by Fontec Inc. on April 9, 2014. This album, performed by Hiroshi Arimori, offers a deep dive into the rich and intellectual compositions of the Russian master, Nikolai Medtner, who was born in 1880 and passed away in 1951. Spanning a total of 61 minutes, this album features 13 tracks that showcase Medtner's unique voice in the classical piano repertoire.

The album opens with selections from Medtner's "Forgotten Melodies, Op. 40," a suite of six evocative pieces that range from the lyrical "Song and Dance" to the dynamic "Dionysian Dance." Each piece is a testament to Medtner's ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies, creating a tapestry of sound that is both engaging and intellectually stimulating.

Following this, the album presents a selection of Medtner's fairy tales, or "Märchen," from various opus numbers. These pieces, such as "Russian Fairy Tale" from Op. 42 and the three contrasting tales from Op. 51, demonstrate Medtner's narrative prowess and his ability to evoke vivid imagery through his music. The album concludes with Medtner's "Theme and Variations, Op. 55," a complex and rewarding work that showcases the performer's technical skill and musical insight.

"メトネルの時間" is a treasure trove for fans of classical piano music and those seeking to explore the lesser-known gems of the repertoire. Medtner's unique voice, characterized by its intellectual depth and lyrical beauty, is brought to life in these performances, offering a fresh perspective on the classical piano tradition. Whether you're a seasoned Medtner enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Nikolai Medtner, a towering figure in the world of classical piano, was a Russian composer and pianist whose music continues to captivate audiences with its intricate beauty and lyrical depth. Born in Moscow in 1880, Medtner was a contemporary of Sergei Rachmaninoff and Alexander Scriabin, and his works often draw comparisons to theirs, yet his unique voice stands out with its rich harmonies and complex counterpoint. Medtner's compositions, which include 14 piano sonatas, three piano concertos, and a wealth of songs and chamber music, are deeply rooted in late-Romantic traditions, eschewing modernist trends in favor of classical structures and symbolic expression.

Medtner's life was marked by significant upheaval, including the Bolshevik Revolution, which led him to seek refuge in London in 1936. Despite periods of obscurity, his music has seen a resurgence in recognition, and he is now celebrated as one of the most significant Russian composers for the piano. Medtner's works, characterized by their aristocratic refinement and sometimes tragic depth, offer a journey through the emotional landscape of the human experience, making them a must-explore for any classical music enthusiast.