Scriabin Piano Preludes

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
The 24 Preludes Op.11 are among the best of Scriabin's early works. They resemble Chopin's 24 Preludes in number, length, and in key relationships. Both Scriabin and Chopin begin in C Major and progress to the relative minor keys through the circle of fifths until the 24th Prelude in D minor. But the similarities end here and the distinct genius of Scriabin is revealed. The comparison of the Op. 74 Preludes and the earlier Op. 11 show an astonishing musical evolution. The contrast between the two sets of preludes is so great as to make one believe that two different composers had written them. How amazing that the lyrical, romantic, Chopinesque Op. 11 Preludes could have been created by the same man who wrote the sparse, bleak, almost atonal Schoenbergian Preludes Op. 74.

Tracks:

Sonata In E Major, K.380 (L.23): Andante Comodo
Piano Sonata In C Major, K.330 (300 h): Allegro Moderato
Piano Sonata In C Major, K.330 (300 h): Andante Cantabile
Piano Sonata In C Major, K.330 (300 h): Allegretto
Prelude In G Major, Op.32, No.5: Moderato
Prelude In G Sharp Minor, Op.32, No.12: Allegro
Etude In C Sharp Minor, Op.2, No.1: Andante
Etude In D Sharp Minor, Op.8, No.12: Patetico
Soirees De Vienne: Valse-Caprice No.6: Allegro Con Spirito
Sonetto 104 Del Petrarca: Agitato Assai - Adagio
Mazurka In C Sharp Minor, Op.30, No.4: Allegretto
Mazurka In F Minor, Op.7, No.3: Allegretto
Kinderszenen: Traumerei
Etincelles, Morceau Caracteristique Op.36, No. 6: Allegro Scherzando
Polka de W. R.: Allegretto

Amazon.com essential recording

Along with the extramusical significance of the aged Horowitz's return to his erstwhile homeland, there's plenty here for seekers of the essential Horowitz. Perhaps his finest Mozart recording, the C-major Sonata, gets a forward-moving reading distinguished by an Andante Cantabile movement that sings the music with the tonal splendor and command of line characteristic of the beloved bel canto singers of the past whom Horowitz looked to as musical models. The program's remainder is as formidable, and only a curmudgeon could fail to smile with delight at a favorite Horowitz encore, Rachmaninoff's Polka de W.R. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Horowitz Returns to Moscow at the Age of 82.......2007-05-06

This profoundly beautiful recording was made in 1986, when Horowitz was 82. This was his first visit since he had left his homeland at the age of 22. The recording itself will make you cry, and when you read the CD insert, written masterfully by Charles Kuralt, of CBS News, you will cry some more. Mr. Kuralt speaks of Horowitz's life away from his homeland and his return. Many touching pictures of Horowitz with his wife, family, and music students enhance Mr. Kuralt's write up.
This recording of the live performance of Horowitz is superb. You will sit with your body rigid, with your hands cold and clenched, and with a smile of anticipation glued on your face, and will wait for the great maestro to play. Here you are, imagining that you are in Moscow, right there and then, and you are moved to tears by the music. What is it about the great performers that they make you breathless with the anticipation of the next note, although you know all these timeless favorites so well? In the search for an answer, I have gone so far even to read the books and articles about the biological foundation of music. I did find information about the neuronal connections and developments of various areas in the brains of the musicians. However, I did not find an explanation as to why is it that the average listener gets uplifted and enriched so much by the music when it is played by the great performers, but may be completely uninvolved when the lesser musicians play the same music. Do we have some sort of music receptors that can be triggered only by the selected few? In the absence of a scientific explanation, I have temporarily accepted that there is some sort of magic, which flows through the performer, and every soul in the concert hall. The great performers know how to make this magical connection with the average listeners. Somehow, I believe, the performer and the audience feed on each other.
I remember reading somewhere how Horowitz loved to perform. He said that he could make people in the audience hold their breath while his hand is up, in the great anticipation of his hand coming down to the keyboard. Yes, it is true; I was literally dying in the anticipation of the next note in many passages. Mr. Horowitz is a great master of passion. Just when you think that you cannot take any more passion, he tones it down, but he never lets the momentum of passion be lost.
You will love to death Horowitz's selection, each a real gem: Sonatas by Scarlatti and Mozart, Preludes by Rachmaninov, Etudes by Scriabin, Chopin Mazurkas, and much more.
You will love this recording!

My favorite classical recording of all time........2007-03-19

I have a couple of hundred classical CDs, and like most of them. But this is the one I play the most. It mixes familiar piano works with others that were entirely new to me.

The concert was held during Horowitz's first return to Moscow, and the emotion of both artist and audience seem audible. Anyhow, the playing is inspired.

Oh, God...5 stars would be simply unfair..........2006-06-07

Upon hearing this record for the first time, I had to pinch myself to make sure I was actually listening to such an amazing, if not perfect display of talent and beauty. After having listened to it over and over again along the years, maybe more than 1000 times, I still find it hard to believe that the guy was even a human being. The only fair review for such a record would be a wordless one: nothing I can write or say would do justice to the rich, almost infinte world of emotions, thoughts and colors he's able to convey through his playing. 20 stars. ;-)

Magnificent!!! Bravo Horowitz!!.......2006-01-07

I remember hearing all about this concert in Moscow when I was a kid. Whatever I thought - so some old guy played in Mosocw.

Well, reader you must forgive me for my stupidity, because for some time I realize the greatness of Maestro Horowitz, and the importance of his playing in Moscow, his hometown and homeland after 60 years.

I bought this album because I remember the hoopla in 1986. I was not dissapointed. The playing is emotional and incredible. Horowitz really was an amazing piano player - the ability to hold rapture over the audience is captured here. Those fingers -connected to a difficult, sole-eating, slight, Russian man - were magic. Wow. Those beautiful notes he plays hold in the air like ripe fruit. A master at work!

This was an inspired performance by a magician on the ivories. If your wondering what the fuss was about, or you want a CD that expresses how classical music can move the soul - then I recommend this CD very highly. Along with the Three Tenors IN Concert, it just has some inherent quality to move you.

Horowitz may have made better studio recordings, and better live recordings, but I am convinced this is just a good. I join along with the gentleman who can be heard yelling "BRAVO" at the conclusion of several pieces. BRAVO!

Amazing.......2005-11-19

Every now and then throughout history a genius in a certain area or discpline emerges. Whether it is Newton, Mozart, Freud. Horowitz falls into this category. Although there are some contrarians who don't like Horowitz, these people are usually not pianists and mere amateurs. Not for nothing he is considered one of the best if not the best pianists. Saying someone does not appreciate Horowitz is the equivalent of the creationists denying evolution.
Horowitz does things with the piano that are practically impossible to emulate or duplicate. His control over color, sound and pedalling dynamics just boggles the mind. He balances left hand right hand accents in a unique way. Horowitz reaches what is in my opinion the most technically challenging accomplishment, namely being ablt to play multiple voices simultaneously as if they all are autonomous one from the other, namely, playing three voices in which one has a crescendo, another a descrescendo and a third staying the same. I challenge any pianist to go to the piano and play 10 different level of marginal volume differences. starting from forte to pianissimo. For non musicians... this is like a shotput thrower throwing the shotput 100 times and hitting 50 feet, then 50 feet and 1/4 inches, 50 and half inches (you get this point) back and forth. This control over volume is just unparralled in the world of music. It is as if Horowitz fingers have their own brains and can do things that boggle the mind. This is akin to inducing schizophrenia in mice. There is NO ONE in the solar system who can play like this.

Average customer rating:

what a recording!
From Byronic to Orgiastic
Horowitz - the best or real close to it
One original approach
No other pianist quite does Scriabin justice

Horowitz Plays Scriabin

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Release Date: 1989-08-10

Tracks:

Sonata No. 5, Op. 53
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 1 In C- C-dur, ut majeur, do maggiore
Preludes: Op. 11 No. 10 in C-Sharp, cis-moll, do diese mineur, do diesis minore
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 9 In E, E-dur, mi majeur, mi maggiore
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 3 In G, G-dur, sol majeur, sol maggiore
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 16 In B-Flat Minor, b-moll, si bemol majeur, si bemolle minore
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 13 In G-Flat, ges-moll, sol bemol majeur, sol bemolle maggiore
Preludes: Op. 11, No. 14 In E-Flat Minor, es-moll, mi bemol mineur, mi bemolle minore
Preludes: Op. 15, No. 2 In F-Sharp Minor, fis-moll, fa diese mineur, fa diesis minore
Preludes: Op. 16, No. 1 In B, H-dur, si majeur, si maggiore
Preludes: Op. 13, No. 6 In B Minor, h-moll, si mineur, si minore
Preludes: Op. 16, No. 4 In E-Flat Minor, es-moll, mi bemol mineur, mi bemolle minore
Preludes: Op. 27, No. 1 In G Minor, g-moll, sol minore
Preludes: Op. 51, No. 2 In A Minor, a-moll, la mineur, la minore
Preludes: Op. 48, No. 3 In D-Flat, Des-dur, re bemol majeur, re bemolle maggiore
Preludes: Op. 67, No. 1
Preludes: Op. 59, No. 2
Sonata No. 3, Op. 23.: Dramatico
Sonata No. 3, Op. 23.: Allegretto
Sonata No. 3, Op. 23.: Andante
Sonata No. 3, Op. 23.: Presto con fuoco; Meno mosso
Etudes: Op. 8, No. 7 In B-Flat Minor, b-moll, si bemol mineur, si bemolle minore
Etudes: Op. 42, No. 5 In C-Sharp Minor, cis-moll, do diese mineur, do diesis minore
Etudes: Op. 8, No.12 In D-Sharp Minor, dis moll, re diese mineur, re diesis minore

Customer Reviews:

what a recording!.......2007-03-04

It's impossible not to love this recording! I have for years, and it stands the test of time. I met Scriabin's music through this classic recording, played many of these pieces across the years, and return to it again and again as to a fountainhead. Say what you will about the art of Horowitz over the years, his handling of these Preludes and Etudes is inerrant. I've not heard another pianist play Scriabin with such intimacy and understanding, Richter included. The alchemy that was Horowitz's alone is in unpartitioned play from beginning to end. His inscrutable ear lets him choose one miniature masterpiece after another, each one vital to his master plan, in the end not only revealing Scriabin's mastery of musical thought, but giving us an indelible guide to Horowitz's own genius. If you want to understand the contribution of Horowitz, walk past his others straight to THIS Scriabin disc, AND the Horowitz Plays Scarlatti disc. For me, these two recordings provide unique evidence of this pianist's most revealing gifts. The B-major Prelude is beautiful enough to melt stone. This recording reminds me of Gould's recording of Byrd and Gibbons - unexpected and perfect, and impossible to live without. In a world on overload, the music made here is witness of a great art. Don't delay the indisputable experience.

From Byronic to Orgiastic.......2005-11-06

Vladimir Horowitz was a champion of Scriabin's music long before it became fashionable, or even semi-fashionable. Scriabin's music appeared on Horowitz's programs as early as the 1920s.

Horowitz's first issued Scriabin recordings were made at his 25th Anniversary Concert in 1953 (also his last public recital until his famous comeback in 1965). The B-flat minor, and C-sharp minor Etudes are given more turbulent performances than usual. There is a great deal brewing beneath the surface. At times, it seems like Horowitz is trying to burst past his own flesh. The desperate passion of his performance lends credence to the notion that he was approaching a nervous breakdown.

The sixteen Preludes were recorded in 1956. (Actually, eighteen Preludes were recorded at these sessions, but two were placed on another album.) Horowitz chose to program the Preludes in a canny sequence of contrasts and surprises building to a climax, rather than sequentially. The Preludes start in the Chopinesque mode, becoming Wagnerian and epic, before dissolving into atonality - - revealing the scope of Scriabin's development.

The Sonata No. 3, also from 1956, is given a broadly phrased, brooding, Byronic performance. The relaxed pacing of the first movement allows Horowitz to move through the various "soul states" without splintering the structure. Contrast the way Horowitz plays the second movement, using the pedal to skillfully blend harmonies, to the way Askhenazy unimaginatively plunks the piece out. (In this movement, Horowitz makes a small cut in the score which actually improves structural clarity.) The transition between the third movement (truly an example of a musical "calm before the storm") is handled with exceptional skill, and Horowitz makes the last movement exciting without over stressing compositional points. Througout the Preludes and Sonata, the balance and poise of the playing speak volumes about Horowitz's post-1953 recovery.

Horowitz played Scriabin's Fifth Sonata during the 1975-1976 season. In his 70s, the pianist sacrifices nothing to age in the most orgiastic performance of this sensual piece ever committed to disc. Scriabin was synesthetic (meaning that he could hear colors) and the musical colors in this piece border on the lurid. This is easily one of the finest recordings from the pianist's late period.

The popular Etude in D-sharp minor, Op. 8, No. 12, played as an encore at Horowitz's 1982 London concert, is given a performance which seduces before building to an explosive climax.

The sound varies, from a bit confined in the 1956 recordings (made in Horowitz's living room) to spacious in the stereo items.

Horowitz - the best or real close to it.......2005-10-05

Listening to this cd put me on a higher plane regarding beauty.
There is no doubt that I will purchase more of "Horowitz plays...". And these preformances are relatively inexpensive. And for such quality, that is a rarity.

One original approach.......2004-05-23

Vladimir Horowitz is not in my ten top keyboard giants from the past. But, in this case it's fair to make a sincere rendition to this album.
Horowitz was a cosmpolitan citizen. That's is an very important detail and I 'll tell you why.
The Scriabin's school pianists Sofronitzky, Nehaus among others saw in him a russian Chopin. And I disagree with that opinion.
Scriabin was a sensitive artist , but also a major colorist than Chopin was and ever a convinced man opened to experience new sounds.
The musical influences received by Scriabin were in multiple directins. Wagner , Mahler, Bruckner opened new musical spaces in the new composers.
Besides Scriabin and its sense he links with Rachmaninov; he didn't get so far from the romantic tradition; and he dindn't join to the avant garde composers as Stravinsky, for instance.
He liked to experience but without his roots.
So that view in the school russian pianistic permeated this conception in pupils as Richter.
It's fair to establish a hidden neuroses in Scriabin's music and that's not a critical judgement.
The point to remark is that Horowitz, never considered this opinion, precisely to his countless exchange ideas with the world outside the provincial Russia.
And that's why his Scriabin sounds less ecletic and more multidimensional than the re3st of his coleagues, including Richter and Gilels; his Scriabin is in many ways out of control and less influenced of the chopinian view. It sounds you less romantic and more universal.
Only Richter in the seventies could escape from that view and pianist as MichAel Ponti , Mijail Rudy or Ivo Porgorelch have understood so.
Listen to Lazar Berman and you'll feel the Nehaus approach.
This is the great virtue of this recording.
But a warning; be carefully with a performance given for Horowitz in Carnegie Hall May 9 1965; because in many ways he seems to return to the chopinisque atmosphere when he played Scriabin in that recital.
A must in your collection. Don't miss it.

No other pianist quite does Scriabin justice.......2004-04-19

The recording of piano has that slightly annoying echoing sound, the pianist makes quite a few slips, but oh, if you want to hear how Scriabin should sound, this is probably the only pianist to listen to on CD's. Horowitz had the right sensibility to fully bring out the meditative, Chopin-like quality of this Russian composer and he plays the music like no other. If you want to hear Scriabin, this is a must-CD.

Average customer rating:

Good...
Interpretations that look forward to the 20th Century ... not back to the 19th
perhaps consider these thoughts before purchasing
Substandard
Dead cheap ... but , unfortunately , a waste of money

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ASIN: B00007J4SI
Release Date: 2002-12-10

Tracks:

Etude
Prelude
Impromptu A La Mazur
F Sharp Minor
A Major
Canon In D Minor
Fugue
Albumleaf In A Flat Major
Albumleaf In F Sharp Major
Nocturne In A Flat Major
Fantasy For 2 Pianos
Egoroff Variations
Allegro Appassionato Op. 4
Vivace
Allegretto
Vivo
Lento
Andante Cantabile
Allegro
Allegro Assai
Allegro Agitato
Andantino
Andante
Allegro Assai
Andante
Lento
Presto
Lento
Misterioso
Allegretto
Allegro Agitato
Affettuoso
Appassionato
Andante
Lento
Vivo
Presto
Waltz In G# Minor Op. Posth.
Waltz In D Flat Major Op. Posth.
Waltz In F Minor Op. 1

Tracks:

Allegro
Capriccio
Tempestoso
Piacevole
Brioso
Con Grazia
Presto Tenebroso
Lento (Tempo Rubato)
Alla Ballata
Allegro
Andante Cantabile
Patetico
Patetico (Alternative Version)
Presto
No. 2 In F# Minor
Prestissimo
Andante
Affanato
Esaltato
Agitato
Allegro
F Major
B Minor
Tempo Giusto
Allegretto Non Tanto
Allegretto
Moderato
Doloroso
Scherzando
Con Passione
Con Moto
No. 9 In G# Minor
Sotto Voce

Tracks:

Prelude In C# Minor
Nocturne In D Flat Major
No. 1 In G# Minor
No. 2 In F# Minor
No. 1 In F# Minor
No. 2 In A Major
No. 1 In F# Major
No. 2 In B Flat Minor
Maestoso
Allegro
Andante
Allegro
Allegro
Presto
No. 1 In B Major
No. 2 In F# Minor
Andante
Vivo
Allegro Assai
Andantino
Andante
Andante
Allegro
Andante Cantabile
Lento
Allegretto
Allegretto
Presto
Andante
Lento
Presto
Andante Doloroso
Allegro Assai
Allegro De Concert Op. 18

Tracks:

Polonaise Op. 21
Andante
Andante
Allegretto
Andantino
Allegro
Allegretto
Lento
Vivo
Agitato
Allegretto
Moderato
Allegretto
Mesto
Patetico In G Minor
Andante In B Major
Fantasie In B Minor Op. 28
Andante
Con Stravaganza
Presto
Lento
No. 1 In E Major
Vagamente
No. 3 In C Major
Ardito Bellicoso
No. 1 In D Flat Major
No. 2 In B Flat Major
No. 3 In C Major
Mesto
Maestoso Fiero
Andante
Irato Impetuoso
Allegro
Elevato
Languido
No. 4 In A Flat Major
Impetuoso Fiero
Poetico Con Delizio
Capricciosamente Affannato
Festivamente

Tracks:

No. 1 In F# Major
No. 2 In D Major
Poeme Tragique Op. 34
Poeme Satanique Op. 36
Poeme Op. 41
No. 1 In C Major
No. 2 In C Major
Feuillet D'Album
Poeme Fantastique
Prelude
Scherzo Op. 46
Etude
Prelude
Reverie
Waltz In A Flat Major, Op. 38
Quasi Waltz In F Major, Op. 47
Allegro In D Flat Major
Piacevole In F# Major
Fragilite
Prelude
Poeme Aile
Danse Languide
Poeme
Enigme
Poeme Languide
Prelude
Ironies
Nuances
Etude
Desir
Caresse Dansee
Albumleaf Op. 58
Poeme
Prelude
Poeme-Nocturne Op. 61
Masque
Etrangete
Allegretto
Allegretto
Andante
Presto

Customer Reviews:

Good..........2007-07-13

Michael Ponti is definitely a virtuoso, and it's pretty amazing that he played through the whole Scriabin catalog. I felt that his tempos were a little all over the place. His Etudes were kind of abrupt and rushed. Overall I think his interpretations were pretty consistent, and overall he did a great job. He's just not Horowitz or Richter.

Interpretations that look forward to the 20th Century ... not back to the 19th.......2007-07-02

The wide divergence of review comments about this CD set reflects the difference of opinion and preference for how Scriabin's music should be played. As a member of the Scriabin Society of America, I've personally seen and heard many different interpretations of many of the etutes, preludes and other pieces in this large set ... I've also heard many strong opinions voiced both pro and con these various performances.

In the end, it all comes down to whether you like your Scriabin lean and taut, or prefer him broad and expansive. I come down on the "lean" side, which is why I enjoy these performances. Michael Ponti misses some notes here and there, but when your Scriabin is almost going off the edge, that's what happens. Scriabin should never sound "pretty" in the manner of Chopin, which is where so many pianists get it wrong. Yes, he owed much to Chopin, Balakirev and other pianist-composers, but that was merely the jumping off place for Scriabin as he plunged headlong into the 20th Century. Yes, there are moments of sheer exquisiteness to savor, but ultimately Scriabin's is music that stretches the bounds of tonality and rattles the structural cage, trying to break free.

When you listen to this set, you'll discover that not all of Scriabin's compositions are top-drawer (no big surprise when you consider the massive number of works he composed over many years). And it's also true that when one single pianist is tackling it all, not every interpretation is going to be equally inspired. But once you've heard Ponti's special way with these pieces -- bright piano and all -- you'll never again be satisfied with a merely "correct" or "poised" reading. That's selling Scriabin WAY too short ... but it's what 80% of the other pianists do. (Oh yeah, but they might get all the notes correct.)

Be sure to purchase this set along with the companion 2-CD set of the complete sonatas that also includes a few late, late works. Ponti's performances of the sonatas are even more effective, IMHO.

perhaps consider these thoughts before purchasing.......2007-05-12

I've listened to this recording for 6 months now, and I have a few thoughts to share. It might help to consider this recording is NOT the complete piano music of Scriabin. Actually it is not even close to the complete recording. What is missing takes up another 2 CDs. Second, the playing is adequate, somewhat expected given the technical demands. I'll explain. Scriabin's work is full of colorful dynamics; it is also poignant, covering a broad range of emotion. Taken together, each and every song demands from the pianist in a way that can overwhelm, and, in this case, I think it did. For me, the emotional messages of pain, fear, desire, and so on were missing, and these emotional messages are at the heart of Scriabin's work. Finally, I prefer a piano sound that is not so bright. At times, when the song reached its climax, I cringed a bit at what I experienced as a unpleasant piercing sound. In the end, I still encourage you to explore this recording for yourself if you are so inclined. I think listening to many recordings by different artists helps us all refine our taste in music. A recording, in my opinion, is never a complete waste of money.

Substandard.......2007-04-16

There are two performances that stand out in this set: The Op. 71 poems. The sound quality throughout is marginal (very thin old analog that makes Horowitz's muffled Third Sonata sound great), and one reviewer even said he/she thinks the piano was out of tune, which wouldn't surprise me.

Ponti's Scriabin is sloppy and umusical in general. Only the Op. 71 poems make this set worth getting. Start with Robert Taub's sonatas, Horowitz Plays Scriabin (on RCA and Sony), and Glemser Vol. 1.

Dead cheap ... but , unfortunately , a waste of money.......2005-06-14

Recorded in the mid '70s , this 'CD' has as much hiss as piano on it . What piano there is , is slightly distorted and far too bright .
This is the complete catalogue , but , honestly , you'd be better off with midi files .
I can't believe a record company actually released this **ap .
Reminds me of those old 'classics' the tobacco companies used to sponsor in the seventies .
Except , most of the collection sounds like it was recorded on an early Phillips cassette recorder .
Cigarettes are better value than this product .

Complete Recordings on Deutsche Grammophon

Average customer rating:

MUST HAVE THIS IN YOUR COLLECTION OF HOROWITZ
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Customer Reviews:

MUST HAVE THIS IN YOUR COLLECTION OF HOROWITZ.......2007-07-13

If you have any Horowitz music in your collection. THEN YOU MUST GET THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS ON DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON. Quality of recording is superb.

Horowitz: A Digital Legacy.......2004-11-15

This set includes all of the recordings Vladimir Horowitz did for Deutsche Grammophon in the 1980s, including his historical concert in Moscow.

While the context of his return in Moscow is moving, the studio recordings are simply wonderful. The sound quality is impeccable. The Steinway piano sounds warm but yet crisp and sharp. Horowitz still has plenty of power, and if you don't have a good sound system, you will notice that your speakers will literally fail, due to the overwhelming wall of sound that Horowitz creates in the intense parts.

The tender moments are just as exciting, as they are enhanced by the very quiet and clear digital recording process. Liszt's Standchen and Mozart's Piano Concerto No 23 are only two of a myriad of highlights contained on this boxed set. Having these high quality digital recordings of this piano legend is a blessing that you can't afford to miss. And at this price, it's simply irresistible.

Tracks:

24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.1 in C
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.2 in a
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.3 in G
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.4 in e
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.5 in D
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part I: No.6 in b
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.7 in A
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.8 in f#
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.9 in E
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.10 in c#
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.11 in B
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part II: No.12 in g#
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.13 in G flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.14 in e flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.15 in D flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.16 in b flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.17 in A flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part III: No.18 in f
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.19 in E flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.20 in c
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.21 in B flat
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.22 in g
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.23 in F
24 Prlds, Op.11: Part IV: No.24 in d
Son No.4 in f#, Op.30: I. Andante
Son No.4 in f#, Op.30: II. Prestissimo volando
Son No.10, Op.70
Prld in a, Op.51 No.2
Prld in F, Op.49 No.2
Reverie, Op.49 No.3
3 Morceaux, Op.45: I. Feuillet d'album
3 Morceaux, Op.45: II. Poeme fantastique
3 Morceaux, Op.45: III. Prelude
Poeme languide, Op.52 No.3
Danse languide, Op.51 No.4
2 Morceaux, Op.57: I. Desir
2 Morceaux, Op.57: II. Caresse dansee

Customer Reviews:

Good but not great.......2007-04-29

I don't actually own this album, but I listened to all the free samples. The preludes were very capably and artistically performed, but I can't give this five stars because the Sonata #4, one of my absolute Scriabins, is not handled very well at all. My Steuerman recording is miles ahead of this one; Pletnev's second movement is neither "prestissimmo" nor "volando", and he takes too many liberties that I just don't think Scriabin would have approved of. Still good preludes, though.

Best recordings I've ever heard of Scriabin's 11th Opus.......2006-03-13

This is music, how can I describe it properly with words?

Pletnev's playing is clean, passionate, and clear.

Get this and hear it for yourself.

Excellent Preludes.......2006-01-22

The Preludes are beautiful. It is a delight to listen striaght through the whole set, this is no academic compilation. The sound is perfectly clear and spacious to match these enigmatic pieces. These are now my favorite Scriabin miniatures (I also have the Pizarro Mazurkas and Lane Etudes and both are fabulous but this is now my favorite).

Ashkenazy's version of the 4th Sonata is certainly better and I'm not sure about the 10th which I find a bit hard to digest. Pletnev doesn't seem to have the right pace in comparison. He doesn't seem to flow as gracefully and powerfully.

The later pieces are less approachable but are full of nuance and nice chromatic harmonies. These were short experiments for his larger works, and as such, the more inaccessible harmonic elements come off as interesting and not grating.

Many fault his early pieces as too influenced by Chopin. Maybe that is true, but I love Chopin and Scriabin is incorporating his own harmonic world on that foundation.

Finally - people pay too much attention to Scriabin's mental state. Just listen to his music. It's beautiful.

Chiseled in Granite.......2005-11-22

Pletnev is not normally a name one associates with Scriabin. His icey approach hardly seems to gel with a composer who spent much of his life obsessed with fire. That being said, this disc has proven to be absolute revelation.

A long time devotee of Sofronitsky's op.11 (complete but next to impossible to find these days) I was pleasantly surprised at how well Pletnev's crystalline approach encompasses the vast array of complex moods and emotions Scriabin approaches.

It is comparatively rare to find a complete recording of op.11 and Pletnev tackles the work very much as a whole, much in the manner of modern performance practice of the Chopin preludes. Often played as individual miniatures or in small groups, Pletnev presents a musical argument in which each short piece has been considered and plays a vital part in the overall structure of the work. Leading us on a musical journey traversing a broad pallet of moods, Pletnev convinces us that everything has a place with a consistency of playing where each miniature is as perfect as the next. To pick out individual examples would be contrary to the way the work is presented, as one large scale piece rather than just a series of miniatures.

Pletnev does for op.11 what Pollini does for the Chopin etudes. They are chiseled in granite, instilled with a classical beauty reminiscentt of grand architecture. There is an authorities clarity that cuts through much of the messy, self indulgent playing often found in the Scriabin of lesser pianists. You could take dictation from this recording. That being said, this is in no way a dusty academic reading but a profoundly moving recording that revels in its perfection and wide array of colours. (Note especially here that this is a live recording!)

Although it may not be to the taste of fans of a more phantasmagorical approach to this most eccentric of composers, I unreservedly recommend this recording of the preludes as the definitive modern recording of the complete set. Although some may find better "Scriabin playing" in the eccentric individual preludes of Horowitz, it really is like comparing apples and oranges.

The later works on the disc too are well performed, especially the minatures which have a introverted vibrancy to them. The Sonatas are better recorded elsewhere and require a more ideomatic approach to really bring out the tension and phantasmorga so important for late Scriabin. (Get the Horowitz 10th)

In short, as a huge fan of the great Scriabinists (Horowitz, Sofronitsky etc) this disc presents a very unique argument for Scriabin that proves to be a real revelation. From the very first prelude one really gets the impression that this recording is a refreshing change. Buy this disc. you will not be disappointed.

Passionate, committed playing.......2002-01-16

I agree with the previous reviewer's comments about this recording. This is highly refined playing and Pletnev has the full measure of sensitivity that these pieces require. Tonal control and control of line and rubato are beautifully handled. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Soul Food
Absolutely wonderful

My Favorite Encores

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The World's Favorite Piano Music
My Favorite Chopin
Van Cliburn: My Favorite Rachmaninoff
Van Cliburn: My Favorite Liszt
Tchaikovsky: Concerto No. 1/Rachmaninoff: Concerto No. 2

ASIN: B000003F3H
Release Date: 1991-05-10

Tracks:

Scherzo No. 2, Op. 31
Reflections in the Water
Etude, Op. 4, No. 3
Etude, Op. 10, No. 12: Revolutionary
La plus que lente
The Girl with the Flaxen Hair
Nocturne, Op. 62, No. 2
Dedication
Etude, Op. 8, No. 12
Clair de lune
Etude tableau, Op. 39, No. 5
The Isle of Joy

Customer Reviews:

Soul Food.......2003-10-03

This collection is simply delicious! It is no less than food for the soul. Van Cliburn is my favorite pianist for the sheer fact that he does not get in the way of the performance. Cliburn plays the music as it was intended to be heard. Never too fast or too slow, Cliburn seems to be in tune with the timing of the Gods! Chopin has never been played more beautifully. Chopin's music requires sensitivity to each and every note. So often a pianist will rush through Chopin as if he were a jockey at the Kentucky Derby; not Cliburn. Cliburn caresses each note and brings out the subtle and sublime harmonies that Chopin composed. We are fortunate to have the recordings of Van Cliburn and esspecially his Chopin and Debussy. Treat yourself to this soul satisfying gift!

Absolutely wonderful.......2000-04-12

This features some of the most beautiful songs played by the one of the best pianists in the world. Van Cliburn clearly enjoys and loves playing these pieces. There is a wide spectrum of "classical music" played from Scriabin to Chopin. I definietly recommend this CD to anyone who appreciates fine music and outstanding performances.

Average customer rating:

Top ten of any performance ever!
Largely Dispensable
A Mix of Sensitive, Passionate, and Vulgar Playing...
Great value!
Simply Great!

Vladimir Horowitz: The Indispensable

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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Horowitz Plays Mussorgsky, Scriabin, Prokofiev, and others
Horowitz Encores
Horowitz Live and Unedited [includes Bonus DVD]
Great Pianists on Piano Playing: Godowsky, Hofmann, Lhevinne, Paderewski and 24 Other Legendary Performers (Great Pianists: In Their Own Words)
Horowitz At Home

ASIN: B000026CV2
Release Date: 1999-11-09

Tracks:

Polonaise - Fantasie, Op. 61, In A-flat Major
Sonata, K 127, L. 186 In A - flat Major
Sonata, K. 87, L. 33, In B Minor
Sonata, K. 135, L. 224, In E Major
Humoresque, Op. 10, No. 5
Scherzo No. 1, Op. 20, In B Minor
Etude, Op. 10, No. 4, In C-sharp Minor
Etincelles, Op. 36, No. 6
Prelude, Op. 23, No. 5, in G Minor: Prelude, Op. 23, No. 5
Nocturne, Op. 9, No. 3, in B Major
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2
Nocturne, Op. 27, No. 1, In C - sharp Minor
Scherzo No. 2, Op. 31, In B-flat Minor
Etude, Op. 72, No. 6, In F Major
Variations On A Theme From 'Carmen'

Tracks:

Mephisto Waltz No. 1
Barcarolle, Op. 60, In F-sharp Major
Etude, Op. 2, No. 1, In C-sharp Minor
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 5, In G Major
Nocturne, Op. 72, No. 1, In E Minor
Etude, Op. 8, No. 7, In B-flat Minor
Barcarolle, Op. 10, No. 3
Polonaise, Op. 53, In A-flat Major
Rakoczy March (Hungarian Rhapsody No. 15)
Etude, Op. 8, No. 12, In D-sharp Minor
Etude, Op. 25, No. 7, In C-sharp Minor
Ballade No. 1, Op. 23, In G Minor
Etude, Op. 42, No. 5, In C-sharp Minor
The Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

Top ten of any performance ever!.......2004-07-08

We made sure our home had hardwood floors just so we could enjoy this performance at its absolute best. Listen to it at lifelike volume and enjoy the ride: it sounds like it could unravel at any moment, but it never does. So many performances of this work are technically stunning, but tremendously dull. Horowitz brings this piece to life like no other pianist. But, if you can find it, Lazar Berman's recording for CBS was stunning.

Largely Dispensable.......2004-06-12

Beginning with a rather tinny Polonaise-Fantaisie, Horowitz follows it up with three relatively stunning Scarlatti sonatas. I am terrified by his reading of the Rachmaninoff G Minor prelude, he uses practically NO pedal at all. The Hungarian Rhapsody by Liszt is borderlining on out of control throughout, as is typical by Horowitz. The Chopin B Major Nocturne is one of the few highlights on this first disc.

Horowitz's Mephisto Waltz has always been horrific, blaring and, dare I say, bangy. I still can not fathom how the greatest pianist of the twentieth century could play a piece so poorly! The highlights of the second disc are certainly the Scriaban preludes. In concurrence with a previous reviewer, the Chopin Ballade is by no means acceptable. If you are looking for the best recording of this piece, Horowitz Live and Unedited, the recording of the 1965 Carnegie Hall return concert, is absolutely unsurpassable.

RCA squeaked out a three-star rating with some fine selections, but others are, simply . . . not good. If you are looking for Horowitz at his best, the previously mentioned "Live and Unedited" CD is the best of his I own, out of about 12 CD's.

A Mix of Sensitive, Passionate, and Vulgar Playing..........2003-07-07

Horowitz has always been a controversial figure in the music world, and this CD can help explain why. It abounds in obscene playing of Chopin (it's an almost painful experience to listen to the reading of the first Ballade) and contains some ridiculously eccentric Liszt (it sounds as if Horowitz plays the last two chords of the first Mephisto Waltz with his elbows). Apart from these shenanagins, however, Horowitz offers up several sparkling Scarlatti Sonatas, beautifully passionate Scriabin Etudes, and demonically exciting original transcriptions such as The Stars and Stripes Forever and the Carmen Variations. The two other Liszt selections are also very entertaining. My rating of three stars is based on the overall quality of playing on this particular album and not on my opinion of Horowitz in general. Still, this recording is worth the money for the few treats I have mentioned.

Great value!.......2003-06-08

This is a great value double-CD album. Horowitz is my top pianist. Not only do I enjoy the boundless passions of his playing, but I also find in his rich range of expressions something beyond techniques and maturity that other pianists cannot rival. This is an ideal album for anyone who wants to experience the colours and virtuosity of the renowned pianist.

Simply Great!.......2003-06-06

Average customer rating:

One of the best of the Great Pianists Series
Aggressive and brave playing
A very powerful and moving pianist!
What a collection! Treats Abound!
Impressive but Sometimes Questionable

Alexis Weissenberg

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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Artur Rubinstein 3
Andrei Gavrilov
Wilhelm Kempff 1
Samson François
Daniel Barenboim

ASIN: B00000HY8I
Release Date: 1999-01-12

Tracks:

Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Ouverture
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Allemande
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Courante
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Aria
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Sarabande
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Menuet
Partita No. 4 In D, BWV 828: Gigue
Variations On 'La Ricordanza'
Estampes: Pagodes
Estampes: Soir E Dans Grenade
Estampes: Jardins Sous La Pluie
Prelude In B minor, Op. 32 No. 10
Piano Sonata No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 28: Allegro Moderato
Piano Sonata No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 28: Lento
Piano Sonata No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 28: Allegro Molto

Tracks:

Prelude And Fuge In A Minor, BWV 543: Praeludium
Prelude And Fuge In A Minor, BWV 543: Fuga
Sonata In A Minor, K. 109
Sonata In F, K. 107
Sonata In B Minor, K. 87
Sonata In F Minor, K. 184
Nocturne In B, Op. 62 No. 1
Nocturne In E, Op. 62 No.2
Etude In B Flat Minor, Op. 8 No.11
Nocturne In D Flat, 'For The Left Hand', Op. 9 No. 2
Piano Sonata No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 28
Suggestion Diabolique (From 4 Pieces, Op. 4)
3 Movements From Petrouchka: Russian Dance
3 Movements From Petrouchka: Petrouchka's Room
3 Movements From Petrouchka: The Shrovetide Fair
Prelude In B Minor

Customer Reviews:

One of the best of the Great Pianists Series.......2006-09-15

This set is one of the best of the Great Pianists series from what I've listened to - Weissenberg is great, previously unknown to me, and there is a lot of very fine music on these discs.

Here is a highlight of my favorites:

Petrouchka - fabulous recording - great playing.

Rachmaninoff Sonata no. 1- My favorite, and an incredibly powerful recording. I've listened to this in its entirety over 20 times, according to my iTunes. This recording is one of my favorites of any piece. I've since started learning to play the piece. Before this, I was only familiar with Rachmaninoff's Second Sonata.

As other reviewers have mentioned, the Debussy is great too. The Bach is crisp and pleasant. There really is not a bad recording on this set. The sheer breadth of the samplings on this disc make it worth owning.

Aggressive and brave playing.......2005-06-20

Stunning interpretation of Rachmaninoff's 1st Sonata ! Very powerful overall performance. A must-buy.

A very powerful and moving pianist!.......2003-12-31

This is an excellent sample of Weissenberg's playing. It's true that his playing is at times very controversial. But his playing is always very confident, powerful, and always thought out in detail.
The selections in this set are all superbly played. The rarely played Rachmaninoff 1st sonata and the popular B minor prelude (Buy the complete recording of the preludes by Weissenberg!) are given a very powerful and moving performance. The Chopin and Scriabin nocturnes are beautifully played. I have always loved his Debussy. I suggest buying his disc of Debussy on DG label. It's treat to hear a rarely performed work such as the Czerny Variations, the Horowitz recording is highly recommended and I prefer it over this one, but this is still worth owning. The highlight for me on this set is the Bach/Liszt transcription of the Prelude and Fugue in A minor. The price of this set is worth it for the Bach/Liszt alone.

Overall, a highly recommended set of a very unique pianist!

What a collection! Treats Abound!.......2002-07-04

Everything on this disk is fun and played in very musical and especially interesting ways. I have to admit to being partial to the Liszt and Siloti arrangements of Bach pieces. Not because they are the best things on the disks, but because you seldom hear these arrangements played by a first rate pianist anymore. Here you do.

And the Stravinsky Petrushka is first rate. Wow! Clear, precise, musical, and terrific. We also get the Czerny "La Ricordanza" variations which are quite fun along with Debussy, Rachmaninoff, Scarlatti, Chopin, Scriabin, and Prokofiev!!!!

What a tour!

This disk will add a great deal to any collection. I am very happy to own it and listen to it often.

Impressive but Sometimes Questionable.......2000-11-08

The man can play fast and he often does play so fast one feels he thinks faster than he can play. But I suppose all the notes are here. In the Bach Partita as in other works in this album, he plays straight, but his trills are aggressive and sound a bit too much like bells. His Scarlatti suffers from the same problems and it loses some of its charm. But the Bach Prelude & Fugue is both strict and singing, the Rachmaninov and the Prokofiev which are works that don't interest me as much are I suppose virtuosic as they should but the sound of the Stravinsky is ugly and I don't think the playing, though unbelievably virtuosic, matches Pollini's account; but perhaps it is the ugliness of the sound that influences my judgement. The Debussy is good but perhaps too straightfoward. The Chopin Nocturnes are great.

Average customer rating:

Piano/Dreams

Piano Dreams

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00007L4R7
Release Date: 2003-01-07

Tracks:

Erik Satie: Gymnopidie No.1 - Lent et douloureux
Franz Liszt: Rjve D'Amour No. 3 in A-flat major
Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky: Octobre - Chant D'Automne
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Sonata in A minor, Ks. 310 - II. Andante catabile con espressione
Ludwig van Beethoven: : Sonata No.14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 Moonlight - I. Adagio sestenuto
Robert Schumann: : Fantaisie in C major, Op. 17 III. Langsam getragen. Durchweg leise zu halten
Sergei Rachmaninov: Eligie in E-flat minor, Op. 3 No.1
Paderewski: Nocturne in B flat, Op. 16 No. 4
Erik Satie: Gnossienne No.1
Maurice Ravel: Pavane pour une infante difunte
George Gershwin: Prelude No. 2
George Gershwin: Love Walked In

Tracks:

Claude Debussy: Clair de lune (from Suite Bergamasque)
Edvard Grieg: Notturno in C major (Pihces lyriques, Op. 54 No. 4)
Alexander Scriabin: Prilude in F-sharp minor, Op. 11 No. 8
Frederic Chopin: Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48 No.1
Frederic Chopin: Nocturne in C-sharp minor
Franz Liszt: Au lac de Wallenstadt (Annis de phlerinage, I. La Suisse)
Claude Debussy: La soiree dans Grenade
Artur Rubinstein: Melody In F
Maurice Ravel: Ondine (from Gaspardde la nuit)
Francis Poulenc: Improvisations in C minor, FP 176 No.15- Hommage A Edith Piaf
Sergei Rachmaninov: Prelude in F- sharp minor, Op. 23
Gabrilovich: Melodie in F
Leos Janacek: On the Overgrown Path
Samuel Barber: Sonate Op. 26 - III. Adagio mesto
Roger Quilter: The Crimson Petal
Henri Dutilleux: D'ombre et de silence (from 3 Preludes)

Customer Reviews:

Piano/Dreams.......2003-02-24

I love this cd so much I been play in my store all time and so many customers come up to ask what's cd are we playing and where to get it, i give them all information I know. we love it.

Average customer rating:

Valuable, if less than stellar
Hooray for Scriabin

Scriabin: Preludes, Vol. 2

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
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Scriabin: Preludes Vol.1
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The Early Scriabin
Scriabin: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1

ASIN: B00004TQOT
Release Date: 2000-07-18

Tracks:

Prld No.1 in g#, Op.22: Andante
Prld No.2 in c#, Op.22: Andante
Prld No.3 in B, Op.22: Allegretto
Prld No.4 in b, Op.22: Andantino
Prld No.1 in g, Op.27: Patetico
Prld No.2 in B, Op.27: Andante
Prld No.1 in D flat, Op.31/Prld No.1 in C: Andante
Prld No.2 in f#, Op.31: Vagamente
Prld No.3 in e flat, Op.31: Presto
Prld No.4 in C, Op.31: Lento
Prld No.1 in E, Op.33
Prld No.2 in F#, Op.33: Vagamente
Prld No.3 in C, Op.33
Prld No.4 in A flat, Op.33: Ardito, Bellicoso
Prld No.1 in D flat, Op.35: Allegro
Prld No.2 in B flat, Op.35: Elevato
Prld No.3 in C, Op.35: Scherzoso
Prld No.1 in b flat, Op.37: Mesto
Prld No.2 in F#, Op.37: Maestoso, Fiero
Prld No.3 in B, Op.37: Andante
Prld No.4 in g, Op.37: Irato Impetuoso
Prld No.1 in F#, Op.39: Allegro
Prld No.2 in D, Op.39: Elevato
Prld No.3 in G, Op.39: Languido
Prld No.4 in f, Op.39
Prld in E flat Op.45 No.3: Andante
Prld No.1 in F#, Op.48: Impetuoso Fiero
Prld No.2 in C, Op.48: Poetico Con Delizio
Prld No.3 in D flat, Op.48: Capricciosamente Affannato
Prld No.4 in C, Op.48: Festivamente
Prld in F, Op.49 : No.2: Bruscamente Irato
Prld in a, Op.51: No.2: Lugubre
Prld in e flat, Op.56: No.1: Violent, Tres Accentue
Prld, Op.59: No.2: Sauvage/Belliqueux
Prld No.1, Op.67: Andante
Prld No.2 Op.67: Presto
Prld No.1, Op.74: Douloureux, Dechirant
Prld No.2, Op.74: Tres Lent, Contemplatif
Prld No.3, Op.74: Allegro Drammatico
Prld No.4, Op.74: Lent, Vague, Indecis
Prld No.5, Op.74: Fier, Belliqueux
Prld in C, Op.2: Lento-Presto
Prld in B, Op.3: No. 1
Prld, Op.3 No.2
Prld in D flat

Customer Reviews:

Valuable, if less than stellar.......2004-06-17

Scriabin is a composer whose genius very likely does not get the credit it deserves. Highly appreciated by scholars and highly trained musicians, he seems to baffle those who have difficulty reconciling his opus 11 and 74 sets as having come from the same composer. The complete two cd set recorded by Zarafiants is valuable because of the sheer number of pieces it includes. The transition from the romantic/Chopin-inspired early pieces to the completely individual and challenging pieces at the end is made palatable here. It plays almost like a biography of the composer. Having said all that, Zarafiants is not remotely the greatest performer I've ever heard with Scriabin. It's quite a bit syrupy, typical, and uninvolved. It's...nice playing, that's all. For stellar playing, look up Sofronitsky, Pletnev, Horowitz, and Richter. Still, for the price and the completeness (even includes some pieces by Scriabin's son), this is a nice addition to a collection.

Hooray for Scriabin.......2000-12-09

This is the second of two volumes of Scriabin's complete preludes. The pianist Zarafiants gives them a good reading here. While volume 1 was occasionally marred by some flaccid playing, Volume 2 is more satisfying. Zarafiants seems more at home with Scrabin's later style. The final set of preludes, the opus 74, are played with tremendous drama and understanding. An added treat is the four preludes written (supposedly) by Scriabin's eleven year old son, Julian, just before his death by drowning. If these four preludes were really written by Julian, then his was a talent to rival Mozart.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

8 Bit Head: Complete Remix Of Easy Listening + Other Stuff

Sergey Prokofiev: Sinfonia Concertante, Op. 125, for Cello & Orchestra / Romeo and Juliet, Suite No. 3, Op. 101 - Neeme Järvi

Renaissance Fantaisas

Repossessed

Sonar 1.0

Suite Patagonia

Sun Always Dances [Import]

The Ones We Never Knew

Solace [Enhanced] [Import]

Tabula Rasa

Super Session [Import]

Salsa Another Day

Sabor Y Salsa, Vol. 2

Copland: Early Orchestral Works, 1922-1935

The Essential Ted Weems, 1923-1930