Pierre Boulez und das Klavier

Pierre Boulez, a towering figure in the world of classical and avant-garde music, presents a compelling collection of his piano works in "Pierre Boulez und das Klavier." Released on January 1, 2012, this album is a testament to Boulez's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to 20th-century music. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, the album is a journey through Boulez's evolving compositional style, from his early works to his later, more experimental pieces.

The album opens with "Douze Notations (1945)," a series of twelve short pieces that showcase Boulez's early exploration of rhythm and texture. Each notation is distinct, ranging from the fantastical and rhythmic to the distant and powerful. Following this, the album features three sonatas, each representing a different phase in Boulez's career. The "Première Sonate (1946)" and "Deuxième Sonate (1948)" are characterized by their dynamic contrasts and complex structures, while the "Troisième Sonate (1955-1957/1963)" delves into serialism and aleatory music, demonstrating Boulez's pioneering approach to composition.

The album concludes with two later works, "Incises (1994/2001)" and "Une page d'éphéméride (2005)," which further highlight Boulez's avant-garde sensibilities. These pieces are notable for their intricate rhythms and innovative use of piano techniques.

Recorded by Cybele Records, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the development of modern classical music. Pierre Boulez's mastery of the piano and his groundbreaking compositions make "Pierre Boulez und das Klavier" a significant addition to any music lover's collection.