Stephen Hough's "Vida Breve" is a captivating exploration of life, death, and the human experience through the lens of classical piano music. Released on January 29, 2021, under the Hyperion label, this album spans a rich tapestry of styles and centuries, showcasing Hough's virtuosity and versatility as both a performer and a composer.
The album opens with Bach's iconic Chaconne, masterfully arranged for piano by Busoni, and closes with Hough's own delicate arrangement of Bach's Prelude in C Major as "Ave Maria." In between, Hough navigates a diverse range of works, from Chopin's profound Piano Sonata No. 2 with its famous Funeral March to Liszt's harmonically rich "Harmonies poétiques et religieuses" and Gounod's poignant "Funérailles." Hough also shares his own compositions, including the title track "Vida Breve" and a charming "Sonatina No. 6" inspired by Bizet's "Carmen."
With a duration of 78 minutes, "Vida Breve" offers a thoughtful and engaging journey through some of the most evocative and introspective works in the classical piano repertoire. Hough's insightful interpretations and technical brilliance make this album a compelling listen for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
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