Busoni: Elegien, Toccata, Sonatina "Carmen", Toccata, Adagio & Fugue

Immerse yourself in the world of Ferruccio Busoni with this captivating collection of his piano works, performed by the acclaimed pianist Peter Donohoe. Released on the prestigious Chandos label, this album offers a rich and varied exploration of Busoni's compositions, spanning a duration of 70 minutes.

The album opens with Busoni's virtuosic "Toccata in A-Flat Minor, BV 287," a piece that showcases the composer's mastery of form and technique. The three-movement work is followed by "Elegien, BV 249," a cycle of six songs that reveal Busoni's lyrical side, with each movement offering a unique mood and atmosphere.

Next, the album features Busoni's "Sonatina No. 6, BV 284," a charming and playful piece based on themes from Bizet's "Carmen." The work is a delightful blend of Busoni's own compositional voice and his admiration for the French composer.

The album concludes with Busoni's arrangement of Bach's "Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in C Major, BWV 564." This monumental work is a testament to Busoni's skill as an arranger and his deep respect for the Baroque master. The three-movement work is performed with great technical prowess and musical insight, bringing the album to a thrilling close.

Throughout the album, Donohoe's playing is marked by its clarity, precision, and expressive depth. His interpretations of Busoni's works are both technically impressive and musically compelling, making this album a essential addition to any classical music lover's collection. The album was released on July 30, 2021, and is a testament to the enduring appeal of Busoni's music.

Ferruccio Busoni, born in Empoli, Italy, in 1866, was a true polymath of the music world, excelling as a composer, pianist, conductor, editor, writer, and teacher. A child prodigy, Busoni's musical journey was shaped by his parents—his Italian father, a clarinetist, and his German mother, a pianist. His international career allowed him to collaborate with some of the most influential musicians and artists of his time. Busoni was not just a virtuoso pianist known for his brilliance and intellectual prowess but also a pioneer of modern music, influenced by giants like Liszt, Brahms, and Bach. His compositions and transcriptions reflect his deep understanding of both Italian and German musical traditions, making him a key figure in the transition from the Romantic to the modern era. Busoni's legacy extends beyond his performances and compositions; his teachings and writings have left an indelible mark on the world of music, inspiring generations of musicians and thinkers.