Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 - Paraphrases & Trascriptions - Grieg: Piano Concerto in a Minor

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano with György Cziffra's remarkable album, released on February 9, 2006, under the Urania label. This two-hour and twenty-three-minute masterpiece is a testament to Cziffra's virtuosity and his deep connection with the compositions of Liszt and Grieg.

The album opens with Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, showcasing Cziffra's technical brilliance and interpretive depth. The first movement is repeated, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the intricacies of Cziffra's playing. Following this, a series of Études d'exécution transcendante demonstrates Cziffra's ability to navigate complex passages with ease and precision.

The second half of the album features Grieg's Piano Concerto in A Major, Op. 18. Cziffra's rendition is both sensitive and powerful, highlighting the concerto's lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity. The album concludes with a series of transcriptions and paraphrases, including works based on themes from Tannhäuser, Rigoletto, Il Trovatore, and more. These pieces showcase Cziffra's versatility and his ability to bring new life to familiar melodies.

György Cziffra's interpretation of these classical pieces is a journey through the romantic and dramatic landscapes of Liszt and Grieg. His playing is marked by a deep understanding of the music, a technical mastery that is both awe-inspiring and inspiring. This album is a celebration of the piano concerto and a testament to the enduring power of classical music.