Romain Leleu, a name synonymous with virtuosity and elegance in the classical music world, presents "Spirit I Am," a captivating album released in 2010 under the Aparté label. This exquisite collection of tracks showcases Leleu's remarkable talent and versatility, offering a blend of well-known pieces and hidden gems that span various styles and moods.
The album opens with the lively "Scherzo de concert," setting the stage for a journey through the romantic and virtuosic works that follow. Leleu's interpretation of Tchaikovsky's "Souvenir d'un lieu cher, Op. 42" is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his ability to infuse each note with depth and expression. The "Pièce de concert No. 1, Op. 11" and "Feuille d'album" further highlight his technical prowess and musical sensitivity.
One of the standout pieces is the "Concerto en Fa Mineur, Op. 18" by Alexander Arutiunian, a work that combines stormy animation with sweeping breadth, perfectly showcasing Leleu's dynamic range and control. The concerto's three movements—Allegro moderato, Adagio religioso - allegretto, and Rondo - allegretto scherzando—offer a rich tapestry of emotions and technical challenges that Leleu navigates with ease.
The album also features enchanting pieces like "L'Alouette" and the famous "Vocalise" from Rachmaninoff's "14 Romances, Op. 34," as well as the playful "Polichinelle" from "Morceaux de fantaisie, Op. 3." The "Fantaisie slave" and "Six morceaux, Op. 51: VI. Valse sentimentale" add a touch of exoticism and romance, respectively.
Rounding out the collection is the iconic "Le Vol du Bourdon" from Rimsky-Korsakov's "The Tale of Tsar Saltan," a thrilling finale that leaves the listener breathless. With a duration of approximately one hour and three minutes, "Spirit I Am" is a testament to Romain Leleu's artistry and a delight for classical music enthusiasts.
Vinylscout