Stanislav Khristenko's debut album on Toccata Classics, "Krenek: Piano Music, Vol. 1," is a captivating exploration of the piano works of composer Ernst Krenek. Released on July 3, 2015, this chamber music collection spans a rich and diverse repertoire, showcasing Khristenko's exceptional technical prowess and expressive depth.
The album opens with Krenek's Piano Sonata No. 4, Op. 114, a four-movement work that ranges from the contemplative "Sostenuto" to the lively "Rondo. Vivace." Khristenko's nuanced interpretation brings out the intricate details and emotional depth of each movement. Following this, the "George Washington Variations, Op. 120" offers a fascinating journey through a series of character pieces inspired by the first U.S. president. Khristenko's playing is both precise and evocative, capturing the essence of each variation, from the martial "Battle Music" to the elegant "Sarabande."
The album also includes Krenek's "Prelude, WoO 87," a brief but captivating piece that serves as a perfect interlude. The final work on the album is the "Piano Sonata No. 15 in C Major, D. 840 'Reliquie'," completed by Egon Krenek. This four-movement sonata is a testament to Khristenko's ability to convey both the technical demands and the emotional resonance of the music.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a comprehensive introduction to Krenek's piano works, performed with sensitivity and virtuosity by Stanislav Khristenko. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking to discover new repertoire, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
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