The Masters Collection: György Cziffra

Immerse yourself in the virtuoso world of György Cziffra with this comprehensive collection, showcasing the legendary pianist's extraordinary talent and versatility. Spanning over three and a half hours, this album is a testament to Cziffra's mastery of the piano, featuring a diverse range of compositions that highlight his technical brilliance and artistic depth.

The album opens with Franz Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, performed with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra under the direction of György Lehel. This work exemplifies Cziffra's command of the concerto form, blending lyrical passages with virtuosic displays. The collection also includes several of Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsodies, demonstrating Cziffra's affinity for the composer's nationalistic and romantic styles.

Beyond Liszt, Cziffra's repertoire extends to George Gershwin's iconic "Rhapsody in Blue," where his interpretive skills bring a fresh perspective to this beloved American classic. The album also features Cziffra's own transcriptions of popular works, such as Johann Strauss II's "An der schönen blauen Donau" and "Tritsch-Tratsch Polka," showcasing his ability to adapt and arrange music for the piano with flair and precision.

Cziffra's renditions of Liszt's "Études d'exécution transcendante" are a highlight of the collection, offering a glimpse into his technical prowess and interpretive insight. These studies, known for their extreme difficulty, are performed with a clarity and finesse that underscore Cziffra's status as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century.

The album also includes several lesser-known works, such as Cziffra's paraphrases on themes from Verdi's "Rigoletto" and Wagner's "Tannhäuser," as well as his arrangements of Hungarian dances and polkas. These pieces provide a fascinating contrast to the more familiar repertoire, revealing Cziffra's eclectic tastes and his ability to breathe new life into a wide range of musical styles.

Recorded with the highest standards of audio quality, this collection is a fitting tribute to György Cziffra's enduring legacy. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Cziffra's artistry or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the full range of his talents as a pianist, interpreter, and arranger. Released by Hungaroton, this album is a celebration of Cziffra's contributions to the world of classical piano, capturing the essence of his unique style and his enduring impact on the musical landscape.

György Cziffra, born in Budapest in 1921, was a Hungarian-French pianist renowned for his extraordinary virtuosity and unique interpretations. A protégé of Ernő Dohnányi, who studied under Liszt's favourite pupil, Cziffra's career spanned the postwar decades, leaving an indelible mark on the European classical music scene. His performances were nothing short of electrifying, often leaving critics awestruck and bewildered by his rapacious technique and profound musicality. Cziffra's repertoire was vast, but he was particularly celebrated for his renditions of Liszt and Chopin. His recordings, such as the complete works of Liszt on EMI France, offer a testament to his artistry and remain essential listening for classical piano enthusiasts. Cziffra passed away in 1994, but his legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century endures.