Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Karol Szymanowski with the Richter Archives, Vol. 23: Szymanowski. This classical masterpiece, released on January 1, 2015, under the DOREMI label, offers a rich and diverse collection of Szymanowski's most renowned works, performed live. The album spans a generous 80 minutes, featuring a blend of sonatas and myth-inspired pieces that showcase Szymanowski's unique compositional voice.
The album opens with the Piano Sonata No. 2 in A Major, Op. 21, a work that exemplifies Szymanowski's early romantic style. The sonata's two movements, "Allegro assai" and "Allegretto tranquillo," are performed with a sense of urgency and tranquility respectively, offering a dynamic start to the album. Following the sonata, the Mythes, Op. 30 series takes center stage. This set of three pieces, inspired by Greek mythology, includes "La Fontaine d'Arethuse," "Narcisse," and "Dryades et Pan," each offering a distinct narrative and emotional depth. The encore performance of "Dryades et Pan" adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement.
The album concludes with the Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 36, a work that reflects Szymanowski's later, more introspective style. This sonata, performed live, brings the album to a close with a sense of resolution and contemplation.
Richter Archives, Vol. 23: Szymanowski is not just a collection of performances; it's a testament to Szymanowski's enduring influence on classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Szymanowski or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to his unique musical language and a captivating listening experience.