Idylle

Dive into the enchanting world of Nikolai Medtner's piano masterpieces with "Idylle," a captivating album set to release on January 17, 2025, via 7 Mountain Records. This exquisite collection showcases the brilliance of Medtner's compositional prowess, featuring a selection of his most beloved and intricate piano works.

The album opens with "8 Stimmungsbilder, Op. 1," a series of evocative mood pictures that set the tone for the journey ahead. It continues with the serene beauty of "Sonata-Idylle, Op. 56," Medtner's fourteenth and final sonata, known for its eloquent themes that linger long in the memory. This sonata, dedicated to Alfred La Liberté, is a testament to Medtner's lyrical genius and intricate craftsmanship.

"Vergessene Weisen, Op. 38" adds a touch of nostalgia with its reminiscences, while the "Sonata in F Minor, Op. 5" showcases Medtner's ability to blend intensity and lyricism. The album concludes with "Vergessene Weisen, Op. 38: VIII. Alla Reminiscenza," a poignant reflection that ties the collection together.

Daan Oostdam, a rising star in the classical piano world, brings his deep love for Medtner's music to life in this recording. His technical virtuosity and expressive depth make him an ideal interpreter of Medtner's complex and lyrical compositions. This album is a testament to Medtner's enduring legacy and Oostdam's artistic vision, offering listeners a rich and immersive experience of some of the finest piano music of the early 20th century.

Nikolai Medtner, a Russian composer and pianist, stands as a beacon of late-Romantic tradition in a sea of modernist trends. Born in 1880, Medtner's intricate and lyrical piano works have often been compared to those of his contemporaries Sergei Rachmaninoff and Alexander Scriabin. His compositions, which include 14 piano sonatas, three piano concertos, and a wealth of songs and chamber music, are characterized by their complex counterpoint, rich harmonies, and profound emotional depth. Medtner's journey took him from the prestigious Moscow Conservatoire to the cultural hub of London, where he spent the latter part of his life. Despite a period of relative obscurity following his death in 1951, Medtner's music is now gaining the recognition it deserves, captivating audiences with its virtuosic demands and poetic beauty. Medtner's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to tradition and a unique compositional voice that continues to inspire and enchant.