Granados: Goyescas

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Enrique Granados with the album "Granados: Goyescas," a masterful collection of piano suites that pay homage to the vivid and dramatic scenes depicted in the paintings of Spanish artist Francisco Goya. Released on January 17, 2020, under the label La Dolce Volta, this album spans 53 minutes of enchanting music, showcasing Granados' extraordinary ability to blend technical brilliance with deep emotional expression.

The album features six tracks, each a gem from Granados' "Goyescas" suite, originally composed between 1909 and 1911. These pieces are not just musical compositions; they are vivid portraits of love, jealousy, and tragedy, inspired by the majos and majas—characters from Goya's works. Granados himself described "Goyescas" as a concentration of his entire personality, reflecting his deep connection to Goya's psychology and artistic palette.

From the playful "Los requiebros" to the haunting "Epilogo. Serenata del espectro," each track offers a unique emotional landscape. Granados' music is a testament to his virtuosity, seamlessly transitioning from humorous whimsy to profound tragedy. The album is a journey through the intricate and passionate world of 19th-century Spain, brought to life through the piano.

Granados' "Goyescas" is widely recognized as a pivotal work in the piano repertoire, though it is infrequently performed. This album provides a rare opportunity to experience the full depth and richness of Granados' compositional genius. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Granados: Goyescas" promises an unforgettable listening experience, showcasing the timeless beauty and emotional resonance of Enrique Granados' music.

Enrique Granados, born Pantaleón Enrique Joaquín Granados Campiña, was a renowned Spanish composer and concert pianist from Catalonia, Spain. Known for his uniquely Spanish musical style, Granados was a pioneer in the movement towards nationalism in late 19th-century Spanish music. His most celebrated works include the evocative piano suite "Goyescas," the vibrant "Spanish Dances," and the opera "María del Carmen." Beyond his musical talents, Granados was also an accomplished painter, adding another dimension to his artistic legacy. Born in the Catalonian city of Lleida in 1867, his life was tragically cut short when he was torpedoed by a German U-boat in the English Channel in 1916. Granados' compositions continue to captivate audiences with their rich, emotive qualities and deep cultural roots.