George Li, the acclaimed American pianist, presents a captivating album that masterfully blends the romantic intensity of Tchaikovsky with the virtuosic brilliance of Liszt. Released on October 18, 2019, under Warner Classics, this album is a testament to Li's extraordinary technical prowess and deep musical sensitivity.
The centerpiece of the album is Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 23, a work that showcases Li's ability to convey the full range of human emotion through his playing. From the majestic opening of the first movement to the fiery finale, Li's interpretation is both powerful and nuanced, revealing the depth and complexity of Tchaikovsky's score.
Complementing the Tchaikovsky concerto are three solo piano works by Liszt, each offering a different facet of the composer's genius. "Les jeux d'eaux á la Villa d'Este" from Années de pèlerinage, Troisième année "Italie," is a sparkling evocation of the famous Italian villa, while "Sonetto 104 del Petrarca" from Années de pèlerinage, Deuxième année, "Italie," is a deeply introspective exploration of Petrarch's poetry. "Réminiscences de Don Juan," S. 418, is a dazzling display of Liszt's virtuosity, based on themes from Mozart's opera.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album offers a rich and varied listening experience. George Li's playing is both technically impeccable and deeply expressive, making this album a standout in the classical piano repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of Li's work or a newcomer to his artistry, this album is sure to impress and inspire.
Vinylscout