Alkan: Character Pieces & Grotesqueries

Dive into the captivating world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with "Alkan: Character Pieces & Grotesqueries," a stunning collection of 17 tracks that showcase the composer's virtuosity and unique musical personality. Released on November 24, 2023, via Piano Classics, this album is a testament to Alkan's mastery of the piano, featuring a mix of character pieces and whimsical grotesqueries that highlight his technical prowess and imaginative flair.

The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences. From the playful "Jean qui pleure et Jean qui rit" to the dramatic "Capriccio alla-soldatesca, Op. 50," each piece is a journey into Alkan's inventive and often humorous musical mind. The collection includes a variety of genres within the classical piano repertoire, ensuring a diverse and engaging listening experience.

Mark Viner's meticulous performances bring Alkan's compositions to life, capturing the essence of each piece with precision and passion. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises to delight and inspire. The intricate details and dynamic range of Alkan's works are beautifully rendered, making this a standout addition to any classical music collection.

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.