Alkan: Allegro barbaro, petites fantaisies, trois préludes et trois marches à quatre mains

Dive into the world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with this captivating collection of piano works, showcasing the composer's virtuosity and innovative spirit. Released in 1998, this album presents a selection of Alkan's most compelling pieces, performed with precision and passion. The album opens with the fiery "Allegro barbaro," a piece that demands both technical prowess and expressive depth. Following this, the "3 Petites fantaisies, Op. 41" offer a contrast in mood and tempo, each movement revealing Alkan's mastery of form and emotion. The "25 Préludes, Op. 31" provide a glimpse into Alkan's harmonic language, with pieces like "Rapidement" and "Dans le genre gothique" standing out for their unique character. The album concludes with the "Trois marches pour piano à quatre mains, Op. 40," a set of marches that are both grand and intimate, performed here in a stunning four-hand arrangement. This album is a testament to Alkan's genius, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for classical piano enthusiasts and newcomers alike.