Godowsky: 12 Impressions

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Leopold Godowsky with his album "Godowsky: 12 Impressions." Released on June 4, 2013, under the Naxos label, this classical piano album is a testament to Godowsky's virtuosity and compositional brilliance. Spanning just under an hour, this collection offers a diverse range of pieces that showcase Godowsky's unique ability to blend technical prowess with expressive depth.

The album opens with "4 Poems: No. 2, Avowal," a piece that sets the tone for the emotional and technical journey ahead. The centerpiece of the album is the "12 Impressions," a suite of pieces that each tell a distinct story, from the mournful "Larghetto lamentoso" to the lively "Tyrolean (Schuhplattler)" and the haunting "Valse macabre." Each impression is a miniature masterpiece, demonstrating Godowsky's ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

In addition to the "12 Impressions," the album also features arrangements of Godowsky's "Waltz Poems" and selections from his "Triakontameron" series. These pieces, arranged for violin and piano, add a new dimension to Godowsky's music, showcasing his versatility as a composer.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Godowsky: 12 Impressions" is an album that will captivate and inspire. Leopold Godowsky's compositions are a journey through the depths of human emotion and the heights of musical expression, and this album is a perfect introduction to his extraordinary body of work.