Leopold Godowsky's "Godowsky: Studies after the Etudes of Chopin" is a remarkable collection of 23 intricate piano compositions, released on Altarus Records in February 2020. This album is a testament to Godowsky's virtuosity and his deep engagement with Chopin's Études. Each piece is a reimagining of Chopin's original études, transformed through Godowsky's unique lens, resulting in compositions that are notoriously challenging and technically demanding.
The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Godowsky's interpretations. His studies are not mere transcriptions but elaborate elaborations that push the boundaries of piano technique. Some pieces even recast Chopin's right-hand melodies into left-hand solos, showcasing Godowsky's innovative approach.
Godowsky, known for his pedagogical contributions, brings a teacher's insight to these compositions, making them a valuable resource for advanced pianists. While his works may not achieve the same widespread recognition as Chopin's originals, they hold a significant place in the classical piano repertoire for their complexity and ingenuity.
This album is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of interpretation and innovation in classical music. It offers a glimpse into the mind of a composer who dared to reimagine some of the most iconic pieces in the piano repertoire, leaving a lasting impact on the world of classical music.
(C) 2020 Altarus Records(P) 2020 Altarus Records
Tracks
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : I. No. 21 in A Major, Op. 10 No.11Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : II. No. 22 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 10 No. 12Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : III. No. 23 in A-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 1Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : IV. No. 24 in A-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 1Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : V. No. 25 in A-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 1Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : VI. No. 26 in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 1Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : VII. No. 27 in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 2Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : VIII. No. 28 in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 2Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : IX. No. 28a in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 25 No. 2Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : X. No. 29 in F Major, Op. 25 No. 3Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XI. No. 30 in F Major, Op. 25 No. 3Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XII. No. 31 in A Minor, Op. 25 No. 4Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XIII. No. 32 in F Minor, Op. 25 No. 4Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XIV. No. 33 in E Minor, Op. 25 No. 5Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XV. No. 34 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 25 No. 5Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XVI. No. 35 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 25 No. 5Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XVII. No. 36 in G-Sharp Minor, Op. 25 No. 6Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XVIII. No. 38 in D-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 8Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XIX. No. 39 in G-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 9Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XX. No. 40 in G-Flat Major, Op. 25 No. 9Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XXI. No. 41 in B Minor, Op. 25 No. 10Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XXII. No. 42 in A Minor, Op. 25 No. 11Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
Studies after the Etudes of Chopin : XXIII. No. 43 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 25 No. 12Leopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
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