Piers Lane, the acclaimed Australian pianist, invites you into a world of rhythm and grace with his latest album, "Piers Lane Goes to Town Again: Aspects of the Dance." Released on May 5, 2023, under the Hyperion label, this classical masterpiece spans a captivating 82 minutes, offering a diverse collection of dances and character pieces that showcase Lane's virtuosity and versatility.
The album is a delightful journey through various dance forms and styles, from the elegant and stately to the lively and playful. It begins with a Keyboard Suite in E Minor, a collection of dances from the Baroque era, including an Air tendre, Courante, Allemande, Sarabande, and Gigue. These pieces, with their intricate melodies and harmonies, provide a solid foundation for the album's exploration of dance music.
Lane then moves on to the romantic and expressive world of Chopin's 20 Mazurkas, Op. 50, offering a glimpse into the composer's nationalistic pride and musical innovation. The album continues with a selection of German Dances by Schubert, showcasing the composer's ability to create memorable melodies and lively rhythms.
The second half of the album features a variety of dances and character pieces from different composers and periods. From the sentimental waltzes of Schubert to the fiery passion of Granados' "Danse barbaro," from the playful "Railroad Rhythm" to the nostalgic "Années de Pèlerinage II, Supplément (Venezia et Napoli)," Lane's interpretations are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
The album concludes with a beautiful arrangement of Bach's Cello Suite No. 6 in D Major, showcasing Lane's ability to adapt and interpret music from different instruments and genres. Throughout the album, Lane's playing is characterized by its precision, expressiveness, and sensitivity to the music's historical and cultural context.
"Piers Lane Goes to Town Again: Aspects of the Dance" is a testament to Lane's artistry and his deep love for dance music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout