Alexis Weissenberg, the legendary pianist with a life story as captivating as his performances, presents "Steel and Soul," a monumental collection of classical piano masterpieces set to release on July 23, 2025, under Warner Classics. Spanning an impressive three hours and nine minutes, this album is a testament to Weissenberg's extraordinary career and his profound connection with the piano.
Born in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 1929, Weissenberg's journey was marked by resilience and passion. His mother, his first piano teacher, nurtured his talent from a young age. Despite the hardships of war and imprisonment, Weissenberg's love for music endured, leading him to study at the Juilliard School with esteemed mentors like Wanda Landowska and Artur Schnabel. His career flourished as he signed with major labels and collaborated with renowned conductors such as Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan.
"Steel and Soul" is a comprehensive retrospective of Weissenberg's artistry, featuring 58 tracks that showcase his technical brilliance and emotional depth. The album encompasses a wide range of compositions, from Bach's intricate fugues to Chopin's delicate nocturnes, and from Beethoven's timeless melodies to Rachmaninov's powerful concertos. Weissenberg's interpretations are marked by a unique blend of precision and passion, making each piece a captivating experience.
Highlights include Bach's "Toccata and Fugue in D Minor," Chopin's "Nocturne No. 21 in C Minor," and Rachmaninov's "Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor," all of which demonstrate Weissenberg's ability to bring out the essence of each composition. The album also features lesser-known gems like Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" and Franck's "Prélude, fugue et variation," showcasing Weissenberg's versatility and curiosity as an artist.
Weissenberg's playing is characterized by a remarkable balance of steel and soul, a fusion of technical mastery and profound emotional expression. His performances are not just displays of virtuosity but also deeply personal journeys into the heart of the music. Whether he is tackling the complexities of a Bach fugue or the lyrical beauty of a Chopin nocturne, Weissenberg's playing is always imbued with a sense of purpose and meaning.
"Steel and Soul" is not just an album; it is a celebration of Alexis Weissenberg's life and legacy. It is a collection of performances that reflect his unwavering dedication to the piano and his ability to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide. For both longtime admirers and new listeners, this album offers a profound and unforgettable musical experience.
Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade IModest Mussorgsky, Alexis Weissenberg
Bach, JS: Flute Sonata in E-Flat Major, BWV 1031: II. Siciliano (Transcr. Lüstner for Piano)Johann Sebastian Bach, Alexis Weissenberg
Saint-Saëns: Le carnaval des animaux: VII. AquariumCamille Saint-Saëns, Georges Prêtre, Aldo Ciccolini, Alexis Weissenberg, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Chopin: Nocturne No. 21 in C Minor, Op. Posth.Frédéric Chopin, Alexis Weissenberg
Chopin: Waltz No. 10 in B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2Frédéric Chopin, Alexis Weissenberg
Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30: I. Allegro ma non tanto (Excerpt)Sergei Rachmaninoff, Alexis Weissenberg, Orchestre National De France, Leonard Bernstein
Bach, JS: Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147: No. 10, Choral. "Jesus bleibet meine Freude" (Transcr. Hess)Johann Sebastian Bach, Alexis Weissenberg
Liszt: Valse-Impromptu in A-Flat Major, S. 213Franz Liszt, Alexis Weissenberg
Alexis Weissenberg, born in Bulgaria to a Jewish family in 1929, was a French pianist whose career was marked by both critical acclaim and controversy. Beginning his piano studies at the tender age of three, Weissenberg's prodigious talent quickly became apparent. His dynamic and forceful playing style earned him comparisons to historical figures, with some hailing him as one of the greatest performers of the 20th century. Weissenberg's recordings, particularly of works like Rachmaninoff's Third Piano Concerto, are cherished by classical music enthusiasts worldwide. His career saw dramatic highs, including a comeback performance with Herbert von Karajan, and his legacy continues to inspire and divide audiences with his intense and captivating interpretations.
10,642 Followers
Best vinyl LP prices!
Compare reliable providers and find the cheapest option. View the current prices below.
Price unknown - In most cases, this means the album isn't available on LP or is no longer offered on LP by our trusted sellers.
Vinylscout
Alexis Weissenberg
