Ornstein: Piano Music, Vol. 2

Dive into the enchanting world of Leo Ornstein's "Piano Music, Vol. 2," a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's unique voice and technical prowess. Released on July 2, 2013, under the Toccata Classics label, this album spans a total of 78 minutes, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.

The album is divided into two main sections. The first is a series of 17 waltzes, each a miniature masterpiece that explores a range of emotions and moods. These waltzes are not just dances; they are intimate conversations between the composer and the listener, each one revealing a new facet of Ornstein's musical personality.

The second section of the album is the Suite russe, Op. 12, a seven-movement work that draws on Russian folk music and dance forms. From the melancholic Doumka to the playful Danse burlesque, each movement is a distinct character study, painted in vivid musical colors. The suite concludes with the Chanson pathetique, a poignant and deeply personal piece that leaves a lasting impression.

The album concludes with "A Morning in the Woods," a standalone piece that invites the listener to step into a serene and peaceful natural setting, as imagined by Ornstein.

Throughout the album, Ornstein's innovative harmonies and rhythmic vitality shine, making "Piano Music, Vol. 2" a compelling exploration of his early 20th-century modernist style. Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and engaging journey through the musical landscape of Leo Ornstein.