111 Piano Hits - Vol. 3

Cyprien Katsaris, renowned for his virtuosic performances and profound interpretations, presents "111 Piano Hits - Vol. 3," a captivating collection of classical piano masterpieces released on November 15, 2014, under the Piano 21 label. This album is a testament to Katsaris' exceptional artistry, featuring a diverse repertoire that spans centuries and styles, all meticulously arranged for the piano.

The album opens with the iconic "The Pink Panther Theme," followed by a delicate rendition of Saint-Saëns' "The Swan" from "The Carnival of the Animals." Katsaris' interpretations of Bach's "Notebooks for Anna Magdalena" and the intricate "Goldberg Variations" showcase his technical prowess and deep musical understanding. The album also includes world premiere recordings of arrangements by Katsaris himself, such as the "Corant" from Lessons for the Harpsichord and the "Pavane de la belle au bois dormant" from "Ma mère l'oye."

From the fiery rhythms of "Ritual Fire Dance" from "The Bewitched Love" to the haunting beauty of Schubert's "Moments Musicaux," and the serene elegance of Debussy's "Clair de lune," Katsaris navigates the emotional landscapes of these compositions with finesse. The album also features arrangements of well-known works like "Hallelujach" from Handel's "Messiah" and the lively "Alla turca" from Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 11.

Katsaris' own improvisational skills shine in pieces like "Spontaneous Improvisation on the Korean Song 'Arirang'" and "Souvenir de Noël," offering a glimpse into his creative genius. The album concludes with the dramatic intensity of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" and the playful charm of Schubert's "Military Marches."

"111 Piano Hits - Vol. 3" is a celebration of the piano repertoire, showcasing Cyprien Katsaris' unparalleled ability to bring out the essence of each piece. With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and a delightful exploration of the piano's expressive range.