Alfred Cortot: The Late Recordings, Vol. 4

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical piano music with Alfred Cortot's "The Late Recordings, Vol. 4." This captivating album, released on November 1, 2010, under the APR label, showcases Cortot's masterful interpretations of a diverse range of compositions. Spanning a little over an hour and twelve minutes, the album is a testament to Cortot's enduring legacy as one of the most revered pianists of the 20th century.

The album opens with Franz Schubert's "6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94," followed by his "12 German Dances, Op. 171." Cortot's delicate touch and nuanced phrasing bring out the subtle beauties of these pieces. The album also features Franz Liszt's "19 Hungarian Rhapsodies," with Cortot's rendition of the eleventh rhapsody in A Minor being a standout performance.

A significant portion of the album is dedicated to Robert Schumann's "Carnaval, Op. 9," a cycle of piano pieces that Cortot performs with characteristic insight and expressiveness. The album also includes works by Frédéric Chopin, such as the haunting "Nocturne in F-Sharp Major, Op. 15 No. 2" and the virtuosic "Étude in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 2." Cortot's interpretations of these pieces are marked by their technical brilliance and emotional depth.

In addition to these well-known works, the album also features lesser-known pieces, such as Franz Schubert's "Am Tage aller Seelen" and Carl Maria von Weber's "Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor, Op. 58." Cortot's ability to bring out the beauty and complexity of these pieces is a testament to his artistry.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Alfred Cortot's "The Late Recordings, Vol. 4" is sure to delight and inspire. This album is a treasure trove of classical piano music, performed by one of the greatest pianists of all time.