Scriabin: Mazurkas

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin with this comprehensive collection of his Mazurkas, performed by the virtuoso pianist Andrey Gugnin. Released on March 4, 2022, by Hyperion, this album is a testament to Scriabin's unique voice in the classical piano repertoire, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The album features a total of 23 Mazurkas, including the complete sets from Op. 3, Op. 25, and Op. 40, as well as two additional Mazurkas, WoO 15 and WoO 16. These compositions, written between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcase Scriabin's evolution as a composer, from his early, more traditional works to his later, more experimental pieces. Each Mazurka is a miniature masterpiece, filled with intricate melodies, rhythmic complexity, and harmonic innovation.

Andrey Gugnin's performance is nothing short of extraordinary. His technical prowess and deep understanding of Scriabin's style bring these pieces to life, highlighting the composer's unique blend of Polish folk influences and Russian romanticism. The album is recorded in stunning detail, allowing listeners to appreciate the nuances of Gugnin's playing and the rich textures of Scriabin's compositions.

This album is an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, offering a comprehensive overview of Scriabin's Mazurkas and a chance to experience the genius of Andrey Gugnin's pianism. Whether you're a longtime fan of Scriabin or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

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.