Miklós Rózsa: Complete Piano Works

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Miklós Rózsa's piano compositions with the release of "Miklós Rózsa: Complete Piano Works." This album, set to be released on May 30, 2025, by Hungaroton, is a comprehensive collection of Rózsa's piano oeuvre, performed by the talented Krisztina Fejes. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, the album features 30 tracks that showcase Rózsa's versatility and mastery of the piano.

Born in Budapest on April 18, 1907, Miklós Rózsa was a distinguished Hungarian composer who studied in Germany and was active in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. His works are known for their rich harmonies, rhythmic complexity, and expressive depth. This album offers a panoramic view of Rózsa's piano works, from the lively and playful "Kaleidoscope, Op. 19" to the intricate and varied "Variations for Piano, Op. 9," and the evocative "Twilight Waltz" from "Providence."

The album opens with the dynamic "Kaleidoscope, Op. 19," a suite of six movements that display Rózsa's ability to blend different styles and moods seamlessly. The "Bagatelles, Op. 12" follow, offering a series of short, charming pieces that highlight Rózsa's wit and inventiveness. The "Piano Sonata, Op. 20" is a substantial work in three movements, showcasing Rózsa's ability to craft a cohesive and compelling musical narrative.

The "Variations for Piano, Op. 9" present a fascinating exploration of a single theme, transformed through a series of imaginative variations. The album concludes with "The Vintner's Daughter, Op. 23," a set of variations that demonstrate Rózsa's ability to develop a theme with both technical brilliance and emotional resonance.

This album is not just a collection of pieces but a journey through the creative mind of Miklós Rózsa, offering a glimpse into the musical landscape of a composer who left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Rózsa's work or a newcomer to his music, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.

Miklós Rózsa, born in Budapest in 1907, was a prolific Hungarian-American composer whose musical journey took him across Europe and to Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on both the concert hall and the silver screen. A child prodigy, Rózsa began his musical education at the age of five, studying the violin and later the viola and piano. His early influences included the rich tapestry of Hungarian folk music and the classical traditions of Bartók and Liszt.

Rózsa's formal training began at the Leipzig Conservatory, where he earned his doctorate in music by the age of 23. His career spanned multiple countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with frequent visits to Italy. Throughout his life, Rózsa maintained a dual commitment to both absolute concert music and film scoring, creating nearly one hundred film scores that are as iconic as they are diverse.

Among his most celebrated works are the scores for epic films like "Ben-Hur," "Spellbound," and "El Cid," each showcasing his distinctive use of orchestration and his ability to evoke powerful emotions. Beyond his film work, Rózsa's concert compositions, such as his Viola Concerto, are considered masterpieces and stand as testament to his deep musicality and innovation.

Rózsa's legacy endures not just in his compositions but also in his influence on the art of film music, making him one of the most respected and versatile composers of his time. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a rich and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.

Miklós Rózsa: Complete Piano Works

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