Mikhail Pletnev, a renowned pianist and conductor, presents a captivating collection of solo piano works in his upcoming album, "Mikhail Pletnev - Solo Piano Works," set to release on June 20, 2025, under the UME - Global Clearing House label. This album is a testament to Pletnev's virtuosity and versatility, featuring a diverse range of compositions that span from classical masterpieces to enchanting lyric pieces.
The album opens with a series of seven fugues for piano, showcasing Pletnev's technical prowess and deep understanding of contrapuntal writing. These are followed by a selection of Lyric Pieces, including the whimsical "Butterfly" and the evocative "To the Spring," which highlight Pletnev's ability to bring out the poetic and expressive qualities of these shorter works.
Pletnev's interpretations of larger forms are also well-represented, with movements from his Piano Sonata in E Minor, Op. 7, and sonatas by other composers, demonstrating his command of both structure and emotion. The album also includes transcriptions for two pianos from the ballet "Cinderella," offering a unique perspective on these beloved compositions.
Live recordings from Pletnev's 18 Morceaux, Op. 72, add a dynamic and spontaneous element to the album, capturing the energy and immediacy of his performances. The inclusion of works by other composers, such as the Etude in F major, op.72, no.6, and the Sonata in D minor, K.9, further underscores Pletnev's eclectic repertoire and his ability to connect with audiences across different musical styles.
With a total duration of 2 hours and 8 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mikhail Pletnev's artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the beauty and diversity of classical piano music.
Lyric Pieces Book V, Op. 54: V. ScherzoEdvard Grieg, Mikhail Pletnev
Lyric Pieces Book IX, Op. 68: II. Grandmother's MinuetEdvard Grieg, Mikhail Pletnev
Lyric Pieces, Book 5, Op. 54: No. 3, March of the TrollsEdvard Grieg, Mikhail Pletnev
Piano Sonata in E Minor, Op. 7: II. Andante moltoEdvard Grieg, Mikhail Pletnev
Piano Sonata in E Minor, Op. 7: III. Alla menuetto, ma poco più lentoEdvard Grieg, Mikhail Pletnev
Cinderella, Op. 87 - Suite From The Ballet: Transcribed For 2 Pianos By Mikhail Pletnev: 1. Introduction. Andante dolceSergei Prokofiev, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Cinderella, Op. 87 - Suite From The Ballet: Transcribed For 2 Pianos By Mikhail Pletnev: 2. Quarrel. AllegrettoSergei Prokofiev, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Cinderella, Op. 87 - Suite From The Ballet: Transcribed For 2 Pianos By Mikhail Pletnev: 4. Spring. Vivace con brioSergei Prokofiev, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Cinderella, Op. 87 - Suite From The Ballet: Transcribed For 2 Pianos By Mikhail Pletnev: 6. Gavotte. AllegrettoSergei Prokofiev, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Ma mère l'oye, Suite, M. 60: I. Pavane de la Belle au bois dormantMaurice Ravel, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Ma mère l'oye, Suite, M. 60: II. Petit PoucetMaurice Ravel, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Ma mère l'oye, Suite, M. 60: III. Laideronnette, impératrice des pagodesMaurice Ravel, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev
Ma mère l'oye, Suite, M. 60: V. Le jardin féeriqueMaurice Ravel, Martha Argerich, Mikhail Pletnev