Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Samson François with "Masterpieces for Piano Left Hand," a captivating collection of classical piano compositions released on September 1, 2015, under the Praga Digitals label. This album showcases François's mastery and versatility as he performs a series of renowned pieces specifically composed or adapted for the left hand alone.
The album spans a rich tapestry of classical styles and periods, featuring works by composers such as Ravel, Prokofiev, and Britten. From the lyrical elegance of Ravel's "Concerto pour la main gauche" to the virtuosic brilliance of Prokofiev's "Piano Concerto No. 4," François's technical prowess and expressive depth are on full display. The inclusion of Britten's "Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra" adds a modern touch, highlighting the composer's innovative approach to the left-hand repertoire.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of the left-hand piano literature. Samson François's nuanced interpretations and impeccable technique bring these masterpieces to life, making "Masterpieces for Piano Left Hand" a testament to his artistry and a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts.
2022 Little Tribeca2015 Praga Digitals
Tracks
Concerto pour la main gauche en Ré Majeur, M. 82: Lento - AllegroMaurice Ravel, Samson François, Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire de Paris, André Cluytens
Prelude and Nocturne for the Left Hand, Op. 9: No. 1, Prelude in C Sharp MinorAlexander Scriabin, Andrei Gavrilov
Piano Concerto No. 4 in B-Flat Major for the Left Hand, Op. 53: I. VivaceSergei Prokofiev, Rudolf Serkin, Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy
Piano Concerto No. 4 in B-Flat Major for the Left Hand, Op. 53: II. AndanteSergei Prokofiev, Rudolf Serkin, Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy
Piano Concerto No. 4 in B-Flat Major for the Left Hand, Op. 53: III. ModeratoSergei Prokofiev, Rudolf Serkin, Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy
Piano Concerto No. 4 in B-Flat Major for the Left Hand, Op. 53: IV. VivaceSergei Prokofiev, Rudolf Serkin, Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy
Four Pieces for Piano, Sz. 22, BB 71: No. 1, Study for the Left Hand. Allegro in B-Flat MajorBéla Bartók, Gábor Gabos
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: I. Thema. MaestosoBenjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: II. Variation I. Recitative. L'istesso tempo (Maestoso)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: III. Variation II. Romance (Allegro mosso)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: IV. Variation III. March (Allegro con brio)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: V. Variation IV. Arabesque (Allegretto)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: VI. Variation V. Chant (Andante solennemente)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: VII. Variation VI. Nocturne (Andante placevole)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: VIII. Variation VII. Badinerie (Grave. Vivacissimo)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: IX. Variation VIII. Burlesque (Molto moderato)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: X. Variation IXa. Toccata I (Allegro)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: XI. Variation Ixb. Toccata II (Cadenza: L'istesso tempo)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: XII. Variation X. AdagioBenjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra
Diversions for Piano Left Hand and Orchestra, Op. 21: XIII. Finale. Tarantella (Presto con fuoco)Benjamin Britten, Julius Katchen, London Symphony Orchestra