Tansman: Piano Concertino - Stele in memoriam Igor Stravinsky - Piano Concerto for the Left Hand

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alexandre Tansman's musical genius with this remarkable album, released on May 1, 2012, by CPO. Spanning just over 55 minutes, this collection showcases Tansman's extraordinary compositional skills and his ability to blend various musical influences into a cohesive and engaging whole.

The album opens with the Piano Concertino, a three-movement work that highlights Tansman's neoclassical style. The first movement, "Toccata - Allegro vivace," is a lively and virtuosic display, while the second movement, "Intermezzo Chopiniano - Andante cantabile," offers a more introspective and lyrical contrast. The finale, "Allegro risoluto," brings the concertino to a thrilling close.

Following the Piano Concertino, the album presents the "Stele in memoriam Igor Stravinsky," a trio of pieces dedicated to the renowned composer. Each piece offers a unique homage to Stravinsky, with "Elegia" providing a somber and reflective mood, "Studio ritmico" showcasing rhythmic complexity, and "Lamento" delivering a poignant and expressive conclusion.

The album concludes with the Piano Concerto for the Left Hand, completed by Paul Moss. This three-movement work is a testament to Tansman's innovative spirit and his ability to create compelling music even under the constraint of using only the left hand. The concerto's movements range from the energetic and dynamic "Allegro con moto" to the lyrical and introspective "Andante cantabile," culminating in the exhilarating "Vivace - Allegro deciso - Vivace."

The album also includes "Elégie à la mémoire de Darius Milhaud," a touching tribute to another influential composer. This piece serves as a beautiful and reflective conclusion to an already impressive collection.

Throughout the album, Tansman's music is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and expressive melodies. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tansman's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling and enjoyable exploration of his musical legacy.