Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alexander Scriabin's piano works with this captivating album, "Vers la Flamme." Recorded in the intimate setting of Henry Wood Hall, London, in December 2013, this collection showcases the profound depth and technical brilliance of Scriabin's compositions, performed with exquisite artistry.
The album spans a wide range of Scriabin's output, from his early works like the "3 Pieces for Piano, Op. 2" to his later, more introspective pieces such as the evocative "Vers la Flamme, Op. 72." Each track is a testament to Scriabin's unique voice in the classical piano repertoire, blending lyrical beauty with innovative harmonic language.
Highlights include the virtuosic "12 Etudes, Op. 8," the evocative "10 Mazurkas, Op. 3," and the delicate "4 Preludes, Op. 22." The album also features lesser-known gems like the "Trois Morceaux, Op. 45" and the "5 Preludes, Op. 74," offering a comprehensive journey through Scriabin's creative evolution.
Produced by Andrew Keener and engineered by David Hinitt, the recording captures the nuanced performances with stunning clarity, allowing the listener to appreciate every subtle detail. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Scriabin's music or a newcomer to his works, this album provides a rich and rewarding listening 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.
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Alexander Scriabin
