Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Frédéric Chopin's piano masterpieces with the album "Plays Chopin." Released on January 1, 2011, under Universal Music Italia srl, this collection showcases the profound genius of Chopin through a selection of his most celebrated works. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, the album is a testament to Chopin's unparalleled ability to blend technical brilliance with deep emotional expression.
The album opens with the lively "Rondeau à la Mazurka in F, Op. 5," followed by the enchanting "Waltz No. 1 in E flat, Op. 18 - 'Grande valse brillante.'" Chopin's "12 Etudes, Op. 10" are represented by the intricate "Etude No. 8 in F," showcasing the composer's virtuosic demands on the pianist. The dynamic "Andante Spianato And Grande Polonaise Brillante In E Flat, Op. 22" is performed live, adding a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the recording.
The heart of the album lies in Chopin's Mazurkas, with "Mazurka No. 33 in B, Op. 56, No. 1," "Mazurka No. 34 in C, Op. 56, No. 2," and "Mazurka No. 35 in C minor, Op. 56, No. 3" offering a glimpse into the composer's deep connection to his Polish heritage. The album concludes with the monumental "Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58," a work that encapsulates Chopin's ability to convey a range of emotions through its four movements: "Allegro maestoso," "Scherzo (Molto vivace)," "Largo," and "Finale (Presto non tanto)."
"Plays Chopin" is a must-listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to Chopin's work. The album captures the essence of Chopin's piano compositions, highlighting his innovative techniques and enduring influence on the world of classical music.