Fantasy - Scriabin & Rachmaninoff

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano with Kotaro Fukuma's latest album, "Fantasy - Scriabin & Rachmaninoff." Released on April 21, 2023, under the Naxos Japan label, this album is a celebration of two of the most influential composers in piano history: Alexander Scriabin and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Spanning a total of 17 tracks and 82 minutes, this collection showcases Fukuma's exceptional skill and deep understanding of these composers' works.

The album opens with Scriabin's "3 Pieces in C Sharp Minor, Op. 2: I. Etude," setting the stage for a journey through a variety of compositions that highlight the technical prowess and emotional depth of both composers. Fukuma's performance of Scriabin's "12 Etudes in B Flat Major, Op. 8" and "12 Etudes in D Sharp Minor, Op. 8: XII. Pathétique" demonstrates his ability to navigate the complexities of these pieces with ease and precision.

The album also features Rachmaninoff's "Piano Sonata No. 2 in B Flat Minor, Op. 36," a monumental work that Fukuma tackles with remarkable skill. His interpretation of the sonata's three movements is both powerful and nuanced, showcasing his ability to bring out the emotional depth and technical brilliance of Rachmaninoff's composition.

In addition to these major works, the album includes a selection of shorter pieces by both composers, such as Scriabin's "Morceaux de fantaisie" and Rachmaninoff's "Morceau de fantaisie in G Minor." These pieces provide a delightful contrast to the more substantial works on the album, showcasing Fukuma's versatility and range as a pianist.

Recorded at the Kanagawa Prefectural Lake Sagami-ko Exchange Center in Kanagawa, the album benefits from excellent acoustics and sound quality, allowing Fukuma's performances to shine. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Fantasy - Scriabin & Rachmaninoff" is sure to captivate and inspire.