Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Louis Kentner's masterful piano performances with the album "Balakirev: Piano Sonata / Liszt: Après une lecture du Dante." Released on September 1, 2007, by Naxos, this collection showcases Kentner's virtuosity and deep musical insight, capturing historic performances from the years 1938 to 1951.
The album opens with Mily Balakirev's Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, a piece that demands both technical prowess and emotional depth. Kentner's interpretation brings out the sonata's dramatic contrasts and lyrical beauty, offering a compelling journey through its four movements. Following this, the album delves into Franz Liszt's "Après une lecture du Dante," a fantastical work that reflects the grandeur and intensity of Dante's "Divine Comedy." Kentner's rendition, arranged for piano and orchestra by Constant Lambert, is a tour de force of expressive playing and technical brilliance.
In addition to these major works, the album features a selection of shorter pieces by Liszt, including the enchanting "Gondoliera" and the fiery "Tarantella" from "Venezia e Napoli," as well as the haunting "En rêve" (Nocturne) and the rhythmic "Bolero, Op. 19." Each piece is performed with Kentner's signature clarity and passion, highlighting his ability to convey the essence of each composition.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a testament to Louis Kentner's enduring legacy as one of the most distinguished pianists of the 20th century. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Kentner's performances are sure to captivate and inspire.
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