Prepare to be captivated by the MultiPiano Ensemble's latest release, "Unplayed Stories … in 40 Fingers," a mesmerizing collection of pieces for four and eight hands, both with and without orchestral accompaniment. Set to release on October 4, 2024, via Hyperion Records, this album promises an hour and four minutes of intricate and dynamic performances that showcase the ensemble's exceptional skill and versatility.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, including works by Franz Liszt, such as the Wanderer Fantasy, and pieces by other notable composers like Weber and Schubert, expertly arranged for multiple pianos and orchestra. Highlights include the Fantaisie & Variations on a Theme by Weber, the Les contrastes "Grand Duo," and the 6 Grandes marches, each piece meticulously crafted to highlight the ensemble's technical prowess and musical sensitivity.
Joined by the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin and conducted by Ivor Bolton, the MultiPiano Ensemble delivers a powerful and nuanced performance that brings these complex works to life. The album's packaging is a jewel case, adding a touch of elegance to this already impressive collection.
"Unplayed Stories … in 40 Fingers" is not just an album; it's a testament to the MultiPiano Ensemble's dedication to exploring and reimagining classical repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Fantaisie & Variations on a Theme by Weber, MWV O9: I. FantaisieFelix Mendelssohn, Ignaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Fantaisie & Variations on a Theme by Weber, MWV O9: II. Theme & VariationsFelix Mendelssohn, Ignaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Fantaisie & Variations on a Theme by Weber, MWV O9: III. FinaleFelix Mendelssohn, Ignaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Les contrastes "Grand Duo", Op. 115 (Arr. Lev & Levanon for 2 Pianos 8 Hands & Orchestra): I. Prelude. Andante con moto ma ben accentuatoIgnaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Les contrastes "Grand Duo", Op. 115 (Arr. Lev & Levanon for 2 Pianos 8 Hands & Orchestra): II. Fugue. AllegroIgnaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Les contrastes "Grand Duo", Op. 115 (Arr. Lev & Levanon for 2 Pianos 8 Hands & Orchestra): III. Choral & Variation. Andante religiosoIgnaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Les contrastes "Grand Duo", Op. 115 (Arr. Lev & Levanon for 2 Pianos 8 Hands & Orchestra): IV. Siciliane & Finale. Allegretto – PrestoIgnaz Moscheles, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Wanderer Fantasy, S. 366 (After Schubert, D. 760) [Arr. Tamir for 2 Pianos & Orchestra]: I. Allegro con fuoco ma non troppoFranz Liszt, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Wanderer Fantasy, S. 366 (After Schubert, D. 760) [Arr. Tamir for 2 Pianos & Orchestra]: II. AdagioFranz Liszt, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Wanderer Fantasy, S. 366 (After Schubert, D. 760) [Arr. Tamir for 2 Pianos & Orchestra]: III. PrestoFranz Liszt, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
Wanderer Fantasy, S. 366 (After Schubert, D. 760) [Arr. Tamir for 2 Pianos & Orchestra]: IV. AllegroFranz Liszt, MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, Ivor Bolton
6 Grandes marches, D. 819: No. 3 in B Minor. Allegretto (Arr. Pauer for 2 Pianos 8 Hands)Franz Schubert, MultiPiano Ensemble
6 Grandes marches, D. 819: No. 6 in E Major. Allegro con brio (Arr. Pauer for 2 Pianos 8 Hands)Franz Schubert, MultiPiano Ensemble