Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Franz Liszt's compositions, masterfully interpreted by the renowned pianist Wilhelm Kempff. Released in 2014 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, "Kempff Plays Liszt" is a captivating collection of classical piano works that span a rich and diverse repertoire. This album showcases Kempff's distinctive style, characterized by his heavy pedaling and deeply expressive playing, which brings a unique depth and resonance to Liszt's music.
The album features a blend of Liszt's most celebrated pieces, including his Piano Concertos No. 1 and No. 2, which are known for their technical brilliance and emotional depth. Additionally, the "Années de pèlerinage" suites offer a journey through Liszt's evocative musical landscapes, inspired by his travels and personal reflections. These pieces, such as "Eglogue" and "Au lac de Wallenstadt," are beautifully rendered by Kempff, capturing the essence of Liszt's romantic and introspective compositions.
"Légendes" and selections from "Venezia e Napoli" further enrich the album with their lyrical and dramatic qualities. Kempff's interpretations are marked by a profound understanding of Liszt's musical language, making this album a treasure trove for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and those new to Liszt's works.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 40 minutes, "Kempff Plays Liszt" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Franz Liszt's music and Wilhelm Kempff's virtuosity. Whether you are drawn to the grandeur of the concertos or the intimate beauty of the solo pieces, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124: I. Allegro maestosoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124: II. Quasi adagioFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124: III. Allegretto vivace – Allegro animatoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124: IV. Allegro marziale animatoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major, S. 125: I. Adagio sostenuto assai – II. Allegro agitato assaiFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major, S. 125: III. Allegro moderatoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major, S. 125: IV. Allegro deciso – V. Marziale un poco meno allegroFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major, S. 125: VI. Allegro animatoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, London Symphony Orchestra, Anatole Fistoulari
Légendes, S. 175: I. St François d'Assise: La prédication aux oiseauxFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Légendes, S. 175: II. St François de Paule marchant sur les flotsFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage I, Suisse, S. 160: VII. EglogueFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage I, Suisse, S. 160: II. Au lac de WallenstadtFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage I, Suisse, S. 160: IV. Au bord d’une sourceFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage II, S. 161: 2. Il PenserosoFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage II, S. 161: 3. Canzonetta del Salvator RosaFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Venezia e Napoli, S. 162: Supplément aux Années de pèlerinage II: 1. GondolieraFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage II, S. 161: 4. Sonetto 47 del PetrarcaFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage II, S. 161: 5. Sonetto 104 del PetrarcaFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff
Années de pèlerinage II, S. 161: 6. Sonetto 123 del PetrarcaFranz Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff