Scriabin Recital

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alexander Scriabin with this exquisite recital, released on Bridge Records. This album, spanning a rich 68 minutes, is a testament to Scriabin's unique compositional voice, blending romanticism and mysticism in a way that only he could. The album features a selection of Scriabin's most evocative works, including his profound sonatas and delicate miniatures, performed with breathtaking virtuosity and interpretive depth.

The recital opens with the dramatic Fantaisie in B minor, Op. 28, setting the stage for the intense and introspective Sonata No. 2 in G-sharp minor, Op. 19. The album continues with the monumental Sonata No. 3 in F-sharp minor, Op. 23, showcasing Scriabin's harmonic innovations and pianistic demands. The lighter Sonata No. 4 in F-sharp major, Op. 30, provides a contrast, while the delicate Deux Poèmes, Op. 32, and Deux Morceaux, Op. 57, offer moments of respite. The album concludes with the enigmatic Vers la flamme, Op. 72, a fitting finale to this exploration of Scriabin's piano works.

This album is an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, offering a comprehensive journey through Scriabin's piano oeuvre. The performances are marked by their technical brilliance and musical insight, making this recital a standout in the world of classical piano recordings. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Scriabin's music or a newcomer to his unique sound world, this album promises an unforgettable experience.

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.