Dive into the world of classical piano with Fazıl Say's captivating album "Pictures," released on November 14, 2011, under the Naïve label. This album is a testament to Say's virtuosity and his deep connection with the classical repertoire. Spanning a duration of one hour and six minutes, "Pictures" offers a rich and varied listening experience, featuring works by Mussorgsky, Janáček, and Prokofiev, as well as Say's own compositions.
The centerpiece of the album is Mussorgsky's iconic "Pictures at an Exhibition," a suite that brings to life a series of vivid images through music. Fazıl Say's interpretation is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the essence of each scene from the "Promenade" to "The Great Gate of Kiev." The album also includes Prokofiev's intense and evocative "10.X.1905" and Say's own "Piano Sonata No. 7, Op. 83," showcasing his compositional skills and pianistic prowess.
Recorded live in Grenoble, France, in February 2011, "Pictures" benefits from the energy and immediacy of a live performance. The album is accompanied by a DVD, providing a visual complement to the music and offering insights into Say's artistic process. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical piano or a newcomer to the genre, "Pictures" is an album that will captivate and inspire.