Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical piano with "The Piano Masters: Dinu Lipatti." This exquisite collection, released on March 1, 2010, under the Documents label, showcases the unparalleled artistry of Dinu Lipatti, a name synonymous with virtuosity and profound musical expression. Spanning a captivating 1 hour and 32 minutes, the album is a testament to Lipatti's mastery of the piano, featuring a diverse array of compositions that highlight his technical brilliance and emotional depth.
The album opens with a delicate arrangement of Johann Sebastian Bach's "Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147: Jesus bleibet meine Freude," followed by the intricate "Partita No. 1 in B-Flat Major, BWV 825." Lipatti's renditions of these Bach pieces are nothing short of transcendent, showcasing his ability to bring out the intricate nuances of each composition.
The selection continues with a serene "Flute Sonata in E-Flat Major, BWV 1031: II. Siciliano," arranged for piano, and a pair of pieces from Bach's "Das Orgelbuchlein," including the contemplative "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 599" and the fervent "Ich ruf' zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639." These works demonstrate Lipatti's versatility and his deep connection to the Baroque repertoire.
The album also features a trio of keyboard sonatas by Domenico Scarlatti, each revealing Lipatti's ability to navigate the complexities of these works with grace and precision. The centerpiece of the collection is undoubtedly Lipatti's breathtaking performance of Frédéric Chopin's "Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor, Op. 58," a work that showcases the full range of his interpretive powers.
Lipatti's repertoire extends to the Romantic era with a delicate "Nocturne No. 8 in D-Flat Major, Op. 27, No. 2" by Chopin and a poignant "Sonetto 104 del Petrarca" from Franz Liszt's "Annees de pelerinage, 2nd year, Italy, S161/R10b." The album concludes with Lipatti's own "Piano Concertino in the Classical Style, Op. 3," a work that blends classical elegance with modern sensibilities.
"The Piano Masters: Dinu Lipatti" is not just a collection of performances; it is a celebration of the piano's rich heritage and the enduring legacy of one of its greatest interpreters. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a profound and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless beauty of classical piano music.