Maso, Jordi: Catalan Piano Album

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Catalan music with Jordi Masó's "Catalan Piano Album," a captivating collection of piano works that showcase the depth and diversity of the region's musical heritage. Released on Naxos in 2007, this album is a testament to Masó's virtuosity and his commitment to preserving and promoting Catalan musical traditions.

Spanning a little over an hour and eighteen minutes, the album features a diverse range of pieces, from lively dances and festive fanfares to introspective nocturnes and evocative landscapes. Masó's arrangements and compositions are interspersed with works by other Catalan composers, creating a rich and varied listening experience.

Highlights include the playful "Ratolinesa" (Catalonian polka) and the enchanting "Ball de Sant Farriol i bolangera" (Catalonian dance) from the "Tonadas, Vol. 4" suite, as well as the hauntingly beautiful "El gorg negre" (the Black Pond) from the "Notes d'estiu" collection. Masó's own compositions, such as the delicate "Canco de bressol" (Lullaby) from "3 Peces Breus" and the evocative "Ametllers florits, al lluny" (Blossoming almond trees, in the distance) from "De les terres altes," demonstrate his deep connection to his cultural roots and his ability to translate them into universally resonant musical language.

Throughout the album, Masó's playing is characterized by a sensitive touch, a keen sense of rhythm, and a deep understanding of the music's expressive potential. Whether he is evoking the bustling energy of a fun fair in "El parc d'atraccions" or the serene beauty of a Spanish serenade, Masó's performances are consistently engaging and emotionally resonant.

"Catalan Piano Album" is not just a showcase for Jordi Masó's technical prowess, but also a celebration of Catalan culture and musical heritage. It is a testament to the power of music to connect us to our roots and to the world around us.