"Slavonic Reflections" is a captivating journey through the rich musical heritage of Eastern Europe, as interpreted by the renowned tenor Ian Bostridge and pianist Nelly Akopian-Tamarina. Released in November 2020 on the Pentatone label, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Slavonic music, featuring a diverse range of compositions that showcase the depth and breadth of the genre.
The album opens with a selection of mazurkas by Frédéric Chopin, each piece a delicate blend of rhythm and melody that highlights Bostridge's expressive tenor and Akopian-Tamarina's sensitive piano playing. The mazurkas are followed by a set of pieces by Leoš Janáček, including the evocative "In the Mists," which showcases the unique harmonic language of this Czech composer.
The album also features works by other notable composers, including Modest Mussorgsky and Alexander Scriabin, each piece carefully chosen to provide a comprehensive overview of Slavonic music. The performances are marked by a deep understanding of the music's cultural and historical context, with Bostridge and Akopian-Tamarina bringing a sense of authenticity and intimacy to each piece.
"Slavonic Reflections" is a beautiful and engaging album that showcases the talents of Ian Bostridge and Nelly Akopian-Tamarina, as well as the enduring appeal of Slavonic music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album's duration of 58 minutes makes it an ideal choice for a single sitting, or it can be enjoyed in shorter segments, allowing the listener to savor each piece at their leisure.
2020 Pentatone Music B.V.2020 Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Tracks
Mazurkas, Op. 67: No. 2 in G Minor, B. 167Frédéric Chopin, Ian Bostridge, Saskia Giorgini
Mazurkas, Op. 17, B. 77: No. 1 in B-Flat MajorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 17, B. 77: No. 2 in E MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 17, B. 77: No. 4 in A MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 41: No. 2 in E MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 30, B. 105: No. 2 in B MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 56, B. 153: No. 3 in C MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas, Op. 33, B. 115: No. 3 in C MajorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
Mazurkas Op. 50, B. 145: No. 3 in C-Sharp MinorFrédéric Chopin, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
In the Mists, JW VIII/22: No. 1, AndanteLeoš Janáček, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
In the Mists, JW VIII/22: No. 2, Molto adagioLeoš Janáček, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
In the Mists, JW VIII/22: No. 3, AndantinoLeoš Janáček, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
In the Mists, JW VIII/22: No. 4, PrestoLeoš Janáček, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
4 Tales, Op. 26: No. 3 in F MinorNikolai Medtner, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina
3 Morceaux, Op. 57: No. 3, Mazurka in F MinorAnatoly Lyadov, Nelly Akopian-Tamarina