Alkan: 12 Etudes, Op. 35

Dive into the world of Romantic piano virtuosity with Charles-Valentin Alkan's "12 Études, Op. 35," performed by Mark Viner. This captivating album, released in 2017 under the Piano Classics label, offers a complete performance of one of Alkan's most substantial and remarkable cycles. Spanning a duration of one hour and eight minutes, this collection of 12 études showcases Alkan's mastery of the piano and his unique compositional voice.

Each étude is a technical tour de force, exploring a different major key and presenting a variety of moods and styles. From the fiery "Allegro barbaro" of Etude No. 5 to the haunting "Chant d'amour - Chant de mort" of Etude No. 10, Alkan's compositions demand both technical prowess and expressive depth from the performer. Mark Viner's interpretation brings out the full range of these pieces, highlighting their technical challenges and musical richness.

Born in 1813, Charles-Valentin Alkan was a French composer and pianist known for his virtuosic and innovative piano works. His music, often overshadowed by his contemporaries, has seen a resurgence in interest in recent years, with performers and audiences alike drawn to its unique blend of technical brilliance and emotional resonance.

"12 Études, Op. 35" is not just a collection of piano pieces; it is a testament to Alkan's genius and a showcase of Mark Viner's exceptional skill. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience.

Charles-Valentin Alkan, born Charles-Valentin Morhange in Paris in 1813, was a French composer and virtuoso pianist whose name is synonymous with some of the most technically demanding piano works ever written. At the peak of his career in the 1830s and 1840s, Alkan stood alongside Frédéric Chopin and Franz Liszt as one of Paris's leading pianists. His compositions, known for their extraordinary difficulty and innovative piano technique, often explore themes and variations with a remarkable ability to evoke vivid imagery, from a menagerie of animals to intricate musical narratives. Despite his prowess, Alkan's later life took a reclusive turn, adding to his enigmatic legacy. His most celebrated work, "Le Festin d'Esope," showcases his unique musical language and remains a cornerstone of his repertoire, beloved by classical piano enthusiasts worldwide.