Saygun: 12 Preludes On Aksak Rhythms / 10 Sketches On Aksak Rhythms / Piano Sonatina

Immerse yourself in the rich musical tapestry of Ahmet Adnan Saygun's "12 Preludes on Aksak Rhythms / 10 Sketches on Aksak Rhythms / Piano Sonatina," a captivating collection of works that showcase the composer's deep connection to Turkish folk music and his mastery of Western classical forms. Released on Naxos in 2008, this album offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, all centered around the distinctive aksak rhythms that are a hallmark of Turkish music.

Saygun, a prominent figure in Turkish classical music, skillfully weaves these irregular rhythms into his compositions, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. The album begins with three movements from "Anadolu'dan, Op. 25," each named after different folk dances from Anatolia, offering a taste of the traditional music that inspired Saygun's work.

The heart of the album lies in the "12 Preludes on Aksak Rhythms, Op. 45," a series of short, characterful pieces that explore the diverse possibilities of these unique rhythms. Each prelude offers a different mood and texture, demonstrating Saygun's versatility and creativity. This is followed by "Inci'nin Kitabi (Inci's Book), Op. 10," a suite of seven pieces that tell a story through music, each movement evoking a different scene or character.

The album concludes with the "10 Sketches on Aksak Rhythms, Op. 58," another set of concise, expressive pieces, and the "Piano Sonatina, Op. 15," a three-movement work that brings together many of the themes and techniques explored throughout the album. With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album is a testament to Saygun's ability to create compelling, engaging music that resonates with listeners. Whether you're a fan of classical music, folk music, or simply appreciate beautiful melodies and rhythms, this album is sure to delight.