Jorge Bolet's 1989 album "Jorge Bolet Plays Liszt" is a captivating journey through the romantic and virtuosic world of Franz Liszt, as interpreted by one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. This album, released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, spans a total of 74 minutes and features 13 tracks that showcase Bolet's technical prowess and deep musical insight.
The album opens with a grand performance of Liszt's "Fantasy In C Major 'Wanderer'," a piece originally composed by Schubert and later arranged by Liszt. Bolet's rendition is a tour de force, divided into four movements that range from the fiery "Allegro con fuoco" to the introspective "Adagio." Following this, the album delves into a variety of Liszt's compositions, including the lyrical "Liebestraum No. 3," the evocative "Années de pèlerinage" series, and the playful "Gnomenreigen."
Bolet's interpretation of Liszt's "Die Forelle" and "Auf dem Wasser zu singen," both originally composed by Schubert and arranged by Liszt, adds a touch of poetic charm to the album. The collection also includes the virtuosic "3 Etudes de concert" and the lively "Tarantella" from "Venezia e Napoli."
Throughout the album, Bolet's mastery of the piano is evident, as he navigates the complex and demanding pieces with ease and grace. His nuanced phrasing and dynamic control bring out the depth and richness of Liszt's compositions, making this album a standout in the classical piano repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Jorge Bolet's "Jorge Bolet Plays Liszt" is an album that promises to captivate and inspire.