Aleksander Tansman - Children at Play. Easy Pieces

Dive into the enchanting world of Alexandre Tansman's "Children at Play. Easy Pieces," a delightful collection of piano compositions that showcase the Polish composer's remarkable talent for creating engaging and accessible music. Released in 2012, this album is a treasure trove of 48 tracks, spanning a little over an hour and twelve minutes, that are sure to captivate both young pianists and seasoned music enthusiasts alike.

The album is a compilation of three distinct suites: "Children at Play," "Recréations," and "Piano in Progress" volumes I and II, along with "Easy Pieces." Each suite offers a unique blend of styles and moods, from the playful and whimsical to the introspective and lyrical. Tansman's compositions are not just easy pieces; they are also quite challenging to play, as noted by pianist Beata Michalak, making them an excellent resource for developing pianists.

"Children at Play" is a charming suite that evokes the innocence and joy of childhood. Tracks like "Meditation," "Lullaby," and "Song" offer a glimpse into the imaginative world of children, while "Peasant Dance" and "South American Dance" bring a sense of rhythm and energy to the collection.

"Recréations" and "Piano in Progress" volumes I and II present a variety of musical forms and styles, from waltzes and tangos to chorales and fox-trots. These suites showcase Tansman's versatility and his ability to create engaging and accessible music that is both technically challenging and musically rewarding.

"Easy Pieces" rounds out the album with a collection of short, characterful pieces that are perfect for beginners and intermediate pianists. Tracks like "Hungarian Mood," "Gigue," and "Siciliana" offer a taste of different musical styles and genres, making this suite an excellent introduction to Tansman's music.

Whether you're a pianist looking to expand your repertoire or a music lover seeking to discover new and engaging compositions, "Children at Play. Easy Pieces" is an album that is sure to delight and inspire. With its charming melodies, engaging rhythms, and technical challenges, this collection is a testament to Alexandre Tansman's enduring legacy as a composer of accessible and engaging music.