Alkan: The Twelve Etudes in Minor Keys

Immerse yourself in the virtuoso world of Charles-Valentin Alkan with "Alkan: The Twelve Etudes in Minor Keys," a masterful collection of piano etudes that showcase the composer's extraordinary technical prowess and innovative spirit. Released on ABC Classic in 2006, this album presents Alkan's Opus 39, a set of twelve etudes in all the minor keys, each offering a unique exploration of musical expression and pianistic challenge.

Spanning over two hours, this album is a testament to Alkan's genius, featuring pieces that range from the ethereal "Comme le vent" to the dramatic "Symphonie - Marche funèbre" and the playful "Le Festin d'Esope." Each etude is a standalone masterpiece, yet together they form a cohesive journey through the depths of Alkan's musical imagination. The album includes iconic pieces such as the "Concerto for solo piano," which comprises movements eight, nine, and ten, and the haunting "Scherzo diabolico."

Charles-Valentin Alkan, a French-Jewish composer and pianist, is renowned for his complex and demanding compositions. This album is a perfect introduction to his work, offering a comprehensive overview of his etudes in minor keys. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching and captivating experience. Dive into the intricate and captivating world of Alkan's piano etudes, and discover the brilliance of one of the most underappreciated composers of the Romantic era.

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.