Macdowell: Second Modern Suite / Etude De Concert / 12 Etudes

Album Details

Dive into the captivating world of Edward MacDowell's piano mastery with this enchanting collection of works, released in 1998. This album showcases MacDowell's virtuosity and compositional prowess, featuring a blend of concert études, suites, and character pieces that highlight his unique voice in the romantic piano repertoire.

The album opens with the fiery "Etude de concert, Op. 36: Allegro con fuoco," a showpiece that demands technical brilliance and expressive depth. Following this, the "Second Modern Suite, Op. 14" offers a journey through various moods and styles, from the majestic "Praeludium" to the playful "Scherzino" and the lively "Marsch." Each movement is a testament to MacDowell's ability to evoke vivid imagery and narrative through his music.

The "12 Etudes, Op. 39" form the core of the album, each piece a miniature masterpiece that explores different technical and expressive challenges. From the whimsical "Hunting Song" to the fiery "Hungarian," these études are not just exercises but also captivating musical experiences.

James Barbagallo's sensitive and dynamic performances bring out the best in these works, making this album an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a fan of MacDowell's music or new to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

April 17, 1998

1998 Marco-Polo

About Edward MacDowell

Edward MacDowell, a pivotal figure in American music, was a composer and pianist of the late Romantic era, celebrated for his evocative piano works that captured the spirit of his native land. Born in 1860, MacDowell was a contemporary of Gustav Mahler and was widely regarded as the most significant American composer of his time. His compositions, such as the Second Piano Concerto and the enchanting piano suites "Woodland Sketches," "Sea Pieces," and "New England Idylls," have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. "To a Wild Rose," a piece from "Woodland Sketches," remains one of his most beloved works. MacDowell's innovative use of native American materials in his music set him apart, earning him critical acclaim both in Europe and at home. In addition to his musical talents, MacDowell was also a poet and a visual artist, embodying the spirit of a true Renaissance man. His legacy continues to inspire, with his works still enjoyed by enthusiasts worldwide.

Album Details

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About Edward MacDowell

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