Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Hungarian folk music and romantic piano compositions with Ernő Dohnányi's captivating album, "Ruralia Hungarica / Humoresken in Form Einer Suite." This exquisite collection, released on Challenge Classics, showcases the brilliance of Ernő Dohnányi, a masterful composer, pianist, and conductor who deeply rooted his music in nineteenth-century Romanticism.
The album features two of Dohnányi's most celebrated works: "Ruralia Hungarica, Op. 32a" and "Humoresken in Form einer Suite, Op. 17." Composed in 1923, "Ruralia Hungarica" is a suite of seven movements that beautifully weaves together a wide range of Hungarian folk melodies, offering a genuine taste of the country's musical heritage. Each movement, from the tender "Allegretto, molto tenero" to the lively "Molto vivace," is a testament to Dohnányi's ability to capture the essence of rural Hungary.
"Humoresken in Form einer Suite, Op. 17," composed in 1907 during Dohnányi's time teaching in Berlin, is a romantic suite that occasionally echoes the style of Brahms. This suite includes five movements, each with its unique character, from the march-like "Allegro moderato" to the contemplative "Pastorale. Andante con moto."
Performing these works is the talented Valentina Tóth, whose extraordinary talent and love for Dohnányi's music shine through in every note. The album also features contributions from Dénes Várjon on piano and Miklós Perényi on cello, adding depth and richness to the performances.
With a duration of approximately one hour and three minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical piano music that will captivate and inspire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight.
Vinylscout