This album is inspired by the fantastic physicality and variety of dance forms in which composers from Granados to Shostakovich excelled. There are some hidden gems as well as pieces that will be familiar to all - and they have the novelty, as transcriptions, of all having been 'stolen' from the original. These arrangements are creative, fun and often virtuosic. -Includes Shostakovich's 'Three Fantastic Dances' released in the composer's 50th death anniversary year -Includes Ravel 'Piece en forme de habanera' released in the composer's 150th birth anniversary year

HORN TRIOS from MOZART to PIAZZOLLA and beyond (Volume 2) is the second installment of a compendium of horn trios from the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st centuries - an amazing "anthology" of original and arranged repertoire for the trio ensemble of horn, violin and piano. This is not the kind of recording project consisting of the "obligatory" Brahms Horn Trio in the company of 2 or 3 other much-recorded works. While the Brahms Trio is included (in Volume 1), the concept is a lot more ambitious. Presenting a 4-centuries, 2-volume collection where each album encompasses a double-disc compilation, the artists explore a strikingly-interesting array of diverse styles and genres, where even the sheer number of different nationalities of the composers (representing 12 different countries in Vol. 1 and 11 countries in Vol. 2) brings instant awe. In Volume 1 we heard trios by composers from the United States, Canada, England, Germany, Austria, France, Liechtenstein, Argentina, Estonia, Romania, Bulgaria and Morocco, while Volume 2 presents music by composers from the US, UK, Australia, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Argentina and Czechia. Among the 15 works in Vol. 1 we heard 8 world-premiere recordings, while Vol. 2 is literally brimming with world-premieres: among the 13 works in Volume 2, there are 11 world-premiere recordings. The three artists offer breathtaking interpretations. Hornist Howard Wall, whose storied career includes not just his legendary reputation as a long-time member of two of America's most prestigious orchestras - the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra, but also an impressive discography of chamber and solo discs, brings a symphonic dimension to his own transcriptions of music by Piazzolla, Stravinsky, Bach and John Coltrane. Violinist Elmira Darvarova is equally "at home" in Mozart (as a former concertmaster of the Metropolitan Opera, where she accompanied the world's greatest singers in a multitude of Mozart operas) and in Piazzolla (having attained a Grammy nomination for one of her many Piazzolla albums), as well as everywhere else (including world music, with her album based on Indian Ragas debuting as No. 3 on Billboard) and she possesses not just an incredibly strong and full tone, but also a magnificent level of sensitivity which fascinates with the limitless range of dynamics and sophisticated phrasing. Pianist Thomas Weaver, whose own horn trios (one in each volume) mesmerize with atmospheric moods, and whose translucently-textured playing has been hailed for his recent album of Hungarian composers (recorded together with Elmira Darvarova), shines in each piece with sublime virtuosity and fierce artistic commitment. This is a "not to be missed" album release, which has been eagerly anticipated in the "horn universe" and elsewhere, leaving open the possibility of a future Volume 3 as a conclusion to this terrific project.

Austrian guitarist Rosa Franziska Maier - laureate of numerous international competitions - releases an imaginative musical collage with GENUIN, comprising works spanning three centuries. Centered around William Walton's "Five Bagatelles" are compositions by Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Johann Sebastian Bach, Giulio Regondi, Heitor Villa-Lobos, and Isaac Albeniz. In Maier's richly colored and precisely articulated guitar sound, these works evoke a wide range of luminous moods, forming an imaginary museum bathed in the light of a Mediterranean summer evening.

Spanish music

Mainstays of Spanish and South American guitar music in a rediscovered rare recording In Prague at the turn of September and October 1969, for four days Supraphon's legendary Domovina studio was the home of the 37-year-old Konrad Ragossnig. The guitarist was in top form; he had studied in Spain under Andres Segovia, the "king of the classical guitar", had won the ORTF competition in Paris, and was teaching guitar in Basel at the Musik-Akademie and in Vienna at the Universitat fur Musik und darstellende Kunst. He was giving solo concerts and appearing with orchestras around Europe, the USA, and the Far East. Besides the classical guitar, he had also mastered the Renaissance lute when interest in early music and it's authentic interpretation was just reawakening in western Europe. His chamber music partners included tenor Peter Schreier and flautist Hans Martin Linde. Now in the Prague studio, Ragossnig returned to mainstays of Spanish and South American guitar music. Some of the pieces are written specifically for his instrument, while others (Albeniz, Granados) are piano works that first became truly famous in guitar transcriptions. In the beautiful acoustics of the Domovina Studio, the recording team captured all the superb qualities (beauty of tone, flawless technical brilliance, subtle inflections of rhythm, dynamics, and articulation) that make his playing and this recording special. Over half a century later, this recording remains a rare gem documenting the guitar literature.

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Spain with a captivating collection of peaceful guitar music, crafted by some of the country's most iconic composers. This unique compilation brings together over three hours of enchanting melodies that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Spain. Perfect for creating a serene atmosphere, this collection will transport you to a world of timeless elegance and natural beauty. The Spanish guitar is more than just an instrument; it is a symbol of Spain's soul, evoking images of sun-drenched landscapes, vibrant festivals, and quiet evenings under starlit skies. This collection showcases the works of legendary composers such as Isaac Alb�niz, Manuel de Falla, Francisco T�rrega, Federico Moreno-Torroba, and many others. Their compositions capture the essence of Spanish folklore and traditions, blending passion and grace in every note. Featured in this collection are some of the most beloved pieces in classical guitar repertoire. From the mesmerizing arpeggios of Recuerdos de la Alhambra to the dynamic energy of Asturias, each piece tells it's own story. Discover the heartfelt melodies of La Paloma and immerse yourself in the delicate harmonies of Mompou's works. Whether you are a connoisseur of classical music or a casual listener, these timeless compositions will captivate your heart. Whether you're looking to enhance your own music collection or searching for a thoughtful gift, this compilation is a treasure trove of artistry and emotion. It's ideal for anyone who appreciates the beauty of classical guitar and the rich traditions of Spanish music. Let the timeless melodies of Spain inspire your soul. Add this extraordinary collection to your playlist today and embark on a musical journey you'll want to revisit time and time again. - An extensive and highly attractive collection of quiet and peaceful music by Spanish composers, played on the country's iconic instrument, the guitar. - Featured are famous works such as La Paloma, Recuerdos de Alhambra and Asturias, by composers Albeniz, de Falla, Sainz de la Maza, Tarrega, Mompou, Moreno-Torroba and many more. - More than 3 hours of atmospheric Spanish music, inspired by the sounds, smells and colors of the Spanish landscape and folklore.

In her new album, Maria Lettberg takes a musical journey through the countries of the European Union. She has curated a selected work for piano from each of the respective countries, regardless of the period or style. All the major styles of classical music are represented in this collection: from the Renaissance, Baroque and Viennese classical periods to Romanticism, Late Romanticism, Impressionism, 20th-century music, minimalism and neoclassicism. Each piece from the 27 countries has it's own fascinating characteristics, and together they paint a multi-layered picture of the European Union.

The critically acclaimed Invencia Piano Duo make their Divine Art debut with Dualities, a dazzling album that expands the possibilities of the piano duet and duo repertoire. Drawing on their virtuosity and innovative spirit, the duo explores works that transcend the boundaries of traditional solo piano, delivering arrangements that demand the synergy of four hands. Highlights of the album include Andrey Kasparov's stunning arrangements of Liszt's Totentanz, Ravel's La valse, Scriabin's Vers la flamme, and Albeniz's Triana. These beloved solo pieces are reimagined with breathtaking scope and texture, demonstrating the Invencia Piano Duo's interpretive depth. The album also features two original compositions by Kasparov: Fantasy on Lutheran Chorales and Cadenza for LvB. These works showcase the duo's mastery of both performance and composition, taking full advantage of the dynamic and expressive potential of four-hand piano playing. Founded by Andrey Kasparov and Oksana Lutsyshyn, the Invencia Piano Duo bring a wealth of experience and accolades to their performances. Educated at the Moscow State Conservatory and later at Indiana University's School of Music, the duo has won international recognition for their compelling interpretations and bold programming. Both artists are esteemed faculty members at Old Dominion University in Virginia and serve as artistic co-directors of the Norfolk Chamber Consort. Their individual achievements are equally impressive. Lutsyshyn, a prizewinner at the William Kapell International Piano Competition, made her Carnegie Hall debut following her success. Kasparov, winner of the Albert Roussel Prize, has premiered significant works such as Bartok's revised Piano Concerto No. 3 and earned recognition as a composer of published and recorded works. The Invencia Piano Duo's discography includes a celebrated four-volume series of Florent Schmitt's piano duet works on Grand Piano Records, as well as albums for Albany and Naxos. With Dualities, they continue to push artistic boundaries, presenting an arresting collection that redefines the piano duo repertoire. This album is an essential addition for lovers of virtuosic piano music, blending brilliance, originality, and deep musicality in a singular listening experience.

Charles Richard-Hamelin continues his exploration of the works of Chopin, combining them with rare Spanish works composed at the turn of the 19th century. Frederic Chopin, Isaac Albeniz and Enrique Granados were all virtuoso pianists whose music is characterized by rich melody, refined harmony and fantasy. The pieces that make up this program echo each other by interweaving poetry and dance through both familiar and obscure melodies.

Classical Music

With this release Canizares has for the first time arranged the piano masterpiece by Albeniz for two guitars. Playing both guitar parts himself, Canizares' interpretations transports listeners to a world of Spanish tradition and culture.

His ninth solo album on Signum Records, Alessio Bax combines exceptional lyricism and insight with consummate technique and is without a doubt "among the most remarkable young pianists now before the public" (Gramophone). Here he presents an album of works for dancing, including tangos and waltzes spanning three centuries. Featuring composers such as J S Bach, Manuel de Falla and Franz Liszt a variety of cultures are showcased in this album for solo piano, and features contributions to an arrangement by Bax himself.

Albeniz, I.: Iberia (Arr. for Guitar Quartet)

Classical Music

Classical Music