Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano with Julius Katchen's exquisite album, released on January 1, 2020, under the Digital Revival label. This album is a masterful blend of compositions by three renowned composers: Ernő Dohnányi, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Anton Arensky. Spanning a total of 57 minutes, it offers a rich and diverse listening experience that showcases Katchen's virtuosity and deep musical insight.
The album opens with Dohnányi's "Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25," a piece that transforms a simple nursery tune into a complex and engaging musical journey through a series of variations. Each variation, from the introductory "Maestoso" to the final "Finale Fugato - Allegro Vivace," reveals new facets of the theme, demonstrating Katchen's ability to bring out the unique character of each section.
Following this, the album presents Rachmaninoff's "Suite, No. 2, Op. 17," a work that highlights the composer's lyrical and harmonic richness. The suite's four movements—"Introduction," "Waltz," "Romance," and "Tarantella"—offer a delightful mix of moods and rhythms, expertly navigated by Katchen's sensitive and expressive playing.
The album concludes with Arensky's "Suite, No. 1 in F Major, Op. 15," a charming and melodious work that further showcases Katchen's versatility. The three movements—"Romance," "Valse," and "Polonaise"—are performed with a blend of technical precision and emotional depth, making this a truly memorable listening experience.
Julius Katchen's album is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. His interpretations are marked by a profound understanding of the music, coupled with a technical brilliance that brings each piece to life. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching experience that highlights the timeless beauty of these compositions.
2020 Digital Revival2020 Digital Revival
Tracks
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Introduction (Maestoso)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Theme (Allegro)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 1 (Poco Piu Mosso)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 2 (Risoluto)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 3 (L'Istesso Tempo)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 4 (Molto Meno Mosso - Allegretto Moderato)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 5 (Piu Mosso)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 6 (Ancora Piu Mosso - Allegro)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 7 (Walzer - Tempo Giusto)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 8 (Alla Marcia - Allegro Moderato)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 9 (Presto - Andante Rubato)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 10 (Passacaglia - Adagio Non Troppo)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Variation 11 (Choral - Maestoso)Erno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25: Finale Fugato - Allegro VivaceErno Dohnanyi, Sir Adrian Boult, Julius Katchen, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Vinylscout