Scriabin: Mazurkas, Opp. 3, 25 & 40

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alexander Scriabin's piano music with this captivating collection of Mazurkas. Released on September 1, 2023, via OnClassical, this album features a total of 21 Mazurkas, spanning three opus numbers: Op. 3, Op. 25, and Op. 40. With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Scriabin's early to mid-career compositions, showcasing his unique voice in the realm of classical piano music.

Scriabin, a prominent Russian composer and pianist, is renowned for his evocative and innovative approach to music. His Mazurkas, inspired by the traditional Polish dance, are characterized by their rhythmic complexity, harmonic richness, and expressive depth. This album presents a selection of these captivating pieces, performed with exquisite artistry and technical virtuosity.

The album begins with the 10 Mazurkas from Op. 3, composed in 1889-1890, which demonstrate Scriabin's early mastery of the form. It continues with the 9 Mazurkas from Op. 25, written in 1900, which exhibit a greater harmonic adventurousness and a more personal expressive language. The album concludes with the 2 Mazurkas from Op. 40, composed in 1903, which further explore Scriabin's unique harmonic and structural innovations.

Each Mazurka is a miniature masterpiece, offering a glimpse into Scriabin's evolving compositional style and his deep connection to the piano. From the haunting melodies of the minor-key Mazurkas to the lively rhythms of the major-key ones, this album is a testament to Scriabin's enduring genius and his significant contribution to the piano repertoire.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is an excellent introduction to Scriabin's piano music. The clear and detailed liner notes provide valuable insights into the composer's life and work, enhancing your appreciation of these beautiful pieces. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting sounds of Scriabin's Mazurkas transport you to a world of musical wonder.

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.