Recollection

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alexander Scriabin with "Recollection," a captivating collection of his most evocative piano works. This album, released on July 28, 2023, under the Immersive Sound Art label, offers a journey through the composer's unique musical landscape, spanning a duration of 58 minutes.

The album opens with Scriabin's Allegro in B Minor, Op. 8, followed by a series of 24 Préludes, Op. 11, each a miniature masterpiece that showcases the composer's distinctive style and harmonic innovations. These pieces, ranging from the lively Vivace in C Major to the introspective Lento in E-Flat Minor, demonstrate Scriabin's mastery of the piano and his ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

In addition to these well-known works, "Recollection" also features transcriptions of pieces from "Der letzte Pierrot" and "Two Old Postcards from Formosa," providing a fascinating glimpse into Scriabin's lesser-known compositions. These pieces, along with the 24 Préludes, offer a comprehensive overview of Scriabin's musical evolution and his enduring influence on the classical piano repertoire.

Alexander Scriabin, a composer renowned for his mystically oriented piano and orchestral music, composed most of his works in the early 20th century. His unique harmonic language and innovative use of tone color have made him a seminal figure in the history of classical music. With "Recollection," you have the opportunity to experience the full range of Scriabin's genius, from his early works to his later, more experimental compositions. This album is a testament to Scriabin's enduring legacy and his continued relevance in the world of classical music.

Alexander Scriabin, born into an aristocratic Russian family in Moscow in 1872, was a composer and pianist whose musical journey was as profound and mystical as it was innovative. Initially influenced by Frédéric Chopin, Scriabin's early works are characterized by a lyrical and tonal language. However, around 1903, his style evolved dramatically, moving towards a more dissonant and transcendent musical idiom that, while not atonal, pushed the boundaries of traditional tonality. This shift was deeply influenced by his personal metaphysics, synesthesia, and theosophy, with Scriabin associating colors with harmonic tones and creating a color-coded circle of fifths.

Scriabin's ambition extended beyond music; he was drawn to the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk, aiming to create a total work of art that engaged all the senses. His compositions, particularly from the later part of his career, are not just musical pieces but explorations of the mystical and the transcendent. Despite his complex philosophical underpinnings, Scriabin's music remains accessible and deeply emotional, making him a key figure in the Russian Silver Age and a major representative of Russian symbolism. His legacy continues to inspire and intrigue, offering a rich tapestry of sound and meaning for listeners to explore.