Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Frédéric Chopin's piano masterpieces with Alfred Cortot's exquisite renditions on "Chopin: Piano Sonatas No. 2 and 3 / Polonaises." This album, released on November 21, 2006, under the prestigious Naxos label, offers a compelling journey through some of Chopin's most profound and virtuosic compositions.
Alfred Cortot, a renowned French pianist and pedagogue, brings his unparalleled insight and technical brilliance to this collection. The album features the complete Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, famously known for its haunting "Funeral March," and the Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor, Op. 58, showcasing Cortot's deep understanding of Chopin's emotional depth and structural complexity.
In addition to the sonatas, the album includes a selection of Chopin's Polonaises, highlighting Cortot's ability to convey both the grandeur and the intimacy of these iconic pieces. The Polonaises, including the "Heroic" Polonaise in A-Flat Major, Op. 53, and the Polonaise-Fantaisie in A-Flat Major, Op. 61, demonstrate Cortot's mastery of Chopin's nationalistic spirit and innovative compositional techniques.
The album also features a selection from the 6 Chants polonais, S. 480, arranged by Cortot himself, offering a unique perspective on Chopin's lesser-known works. The Andante spianato et grande polonaise brillante, Op. 22, rounds out the collection, showcasing Cortot's ability to seamlessly blend lyrical beauty with technical virtuosity.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a testament to Cortot's enduring legacy as one of the most influential interpreters of Chopin's music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Chopin's works, Alfred Cortot's "Chopin: Piano Sonatas No. 2 and 3 / Polonaises" promises an unforgettable listening experience.
Vinylscout