The hugely talented pianist, Chiyan Wong makes his recording debut with the phenomenally difficult Liszt transcriptions of well-known opera melodies. A broad and thoughtful musician,...

The hugely talented pianist, Chiyan Wong makes his recording debut with the phenomenally difficult Liszt transcriptions of well-known opera melodies. A broad and thoughtful musician, Wong's special interest in the music of Franz Liszt has led to him perfecting his own editions of these popular operatic fantasies. Following Liszt's own advice regarding transcriptions, Wong concentrates on communicating the spirit and intention of the music whilst applying his own personal touches. Chiyan Wong has been astonishing audiences with not just the sincerity and sheer authority of his playing, but also feted by critics and colleagues as a rising star of the piano world.

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REVIEW:

Beyond the technical polish he brings to these fiendishly challenging pieces, most striking is Wong's sincerity of purpose. While espousing a more personal approach to the music, his reverence for Liszt precludes any radical alteration of the scores in the name of pianistic exhibitionism. A project that could have easily lapsed into musicial disfigurement has instead been bolstered by understanding and conviction. Linn has captured Wong's sound in all its dimensions. By all means, have a listen.

– Gramophone