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David Johnson Piano Music: Unfamiliar and Appealing
This is a fascinating collection of pieces. Some are quite simple. Others sound challenging to play. Johnson writes in a primarily tonal style. But that doesn't limit him to simple harmonies.
Amazing Miniatures by Janis Kepitis Ripe for Discovery
Nora Luse plays with sympathy and enthusiasm. These may be small pieces, but she takes them seriously. And in the process reveals some marvelous miniatures of beauty
Marc Ponthus’ Masterful Beethoven and Stockhausen
Ponthus is in control. He knows the function of every note, and how it fits into the structure of the work. With repeated listening, I began to hear hints of that structure, too.
Hyacinthe Jadin Piano Sonatas Build on Haydn
Toporowski plays these works with great refinement. He shapes the phrases with subtilty. And his technical skills make even the most complex runs sound simple and elegant.
Charles Villers Stanford Children's Songs Charm
If you're just discovering Stanford, I wouldn't recommend starting here. But if you already know him through his sacred works, then add this to your collection.
Mengyiuyi Chen Performs Mel Bonis with Subtlety
Pianist Mengyiuyi Chen performs admirably. Bonis requires a certain degree of subtlety, and Chen has it. Phrasing is often nuanced rather than fully articulated. Her use of the pedal is strategic and effective.
Myron Silberstein Masters Creston's Rhythmicons
If you only know Creston through his greatest hits, give this album a listen. It furthered my appreciation for this American genius. It may do the same for you.
Tingyue Jiang Bring Fire to Henry Litolff Piano Music
Jiang makes each piece shine. There's never a question about what's foreground and what's background material. And she lovingly shapes each phrase. It maximizes the emotional impact of each melody. And that makes this release a joy to listen to from start to finish.
Tra Nguyen Excels with Borenstein Piano Works
Highly recommended, both for the quality of the music, and the quality of the performances. Nguyen wrote that Borenstein's music was "inspirational and rewarding." I can hear it in her playing.
We are grateful for the generosity of the Joseph and Robert Cornell Memorial Foundation and UVA Arts Council, supporting WTJU and CharlottesvilleClassical.org.