バーバー：ピアノ作品集

Dive into the enchanting world of Samuel Barber's piano repertoire with this captivating album, "バーバー：ピアノ作品集," performed by the talented pianist Yuko Mikafune. Released in 2009, this collection showcases Barber's mastery of rhythm and romanticism, offering a rich tapestry of his most celebrated piano works.

The album opens with Barber's monumental Piano Sonata in E-flat minor, Op. 26, a piece that demands both technical virtuosity and emotional depth. Yuko Mikafune's interpretation brings out the intricate details and sweeping melodies of this four-movement sonata, providing a profound listening experience.

In addition to the sonata, the album features a selection of Barber's shorter piano pieces, each offering a unique glimpse into his compositional style. The "Nocturne in the Style of John Field," Op. 33, pays homage to the Irish composer with its lyrical and introspective character. The "Interlude I (Unfinished)," though left incomplete by Barber, is a hauntingly beautiful work that Mikafune brings to life with sensitivity and grace.

The "Ballade," Op. 46, is a dramatic and passionate piece that showcases Mikafune's technical prowess and expressive range. The album concludes with "Excursions," Op. 20, a suite of four movements that explore a variety of moods and styles, from the playful and energetic to the contemplative and serene.

This album is a testament to Yuko Mikafune's artistry and her deep connection to Samuel Barber's music. Recorded in celebration of her 20th anniversary as a performing artist, "バーバー：ピアノ作品集" is a stunning showcase of her skill and musicality. Whether you are a longtime fan of Barber's music or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Samuel Barber, one of the most celebrated American composers of the 20th century, is renowned for his lyrical and emotionally expressive music that bridges the gap between the Romantic era and modernism. Born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Barber showed prodigious musical talent from a young age, studying composition with Rosario Scalero at the Curtis Institute and later with his uncle, composer Sidney Homer. His works, such as the iconic "Adagio for Strings" and the opera "Vanessa," are staples of the classical repertoire, showcasing his mastery of traditional harmonic language and formal structure. Barber's compositions often evoke deep emotions, with a rich harmonic palette and rhythmic complexity that captivates audiences. Despite the experimental trends of his time, Barber remained rooted in the Romantic tradition, earning him the title of the "last great American Romantic." His collaborations with Gian Carlo Menotti and his profound influence on classical music solidify his legacy as a composer of unparalleled expressiveness and lyricism.