Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Kenneth Leighton's piano compositions with this exquisite collection, released in 2000 under the Chandos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a testament to Leighton's mastery of the piano repertoire, showcasing his lucid writing and wide emotional range.
The album opens with the charming "Sonatina No. 2," a piece that exemplifies Leighton's ability to craft engaging and accessible piano music. Following this, the "Five Studies, Op. 22" delve into a richer, more introspective side of Leighton's compositional style, with each study offering a unique exploration of piano technique and expression.
A highlight of the collection is the "Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24," subtitled "Homage to Bach." This multi-movement work pays tribute to the Baroque master while showcasing Leighton's own contrapuntal prowess. The fantasia's varied movements, from the majestic opening to the lively fugues, demonstrate Leighton's versatility and deep understanding of musical structure.
The whimsical "Pieces for Angela, Op. 47" offer a delightful contrast, with titles like "Clockwork Doll" and "Leap-Frog" hinting at the playful nature of these miniatures. The collection concludes with the "Four Romantic Pieces, Op. 95," which encapsulate the romantic spirit in a series of evocative and lyrical movements.
Throughout the album, Margaret Fingerhut's virtuoso piano playing brings Leighton's compositions to life, ensuring an enchanting and memorable listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Kenneth Leighton's music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2000 Chandos Records2000 Chandos Records
Tracks
Sonatina No. 2: I. AllegroKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Sonatina No. 2: II. Andante sostenutoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Sonatina No. 2: III. Allegro moltoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Five Studies, Op. 22: I. Allegro ma non troppoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Five Studies, Op. 22: II. Allegro leggerissimoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Five Studies, Op. 22: III. Allegro moltoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Five Studies, Op. 22: IV. Molto lento, molto espressivo, ed un poco liberamenteKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Five Studies, Op. 22: V. Presto con bravuraKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24, "Homage to Bach": I. Maestoso ed un poco liberamenteKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24, "Homage to Bach": II. Toccata. Allegro molto e ritmicoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24, "Homage to Bach": III. Chorale. Lento sostenutoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24, "Homage to Bach": IV. Fuga I. Allegretto con motoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Fantasia contrappuntistica, Op. 24, "Homage to Bach": V. Fuga II. Presto e gaio - Primo tempoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: I. Clockwork DollKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: II. The SwanKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: III. Little MinxKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: IV. Cradle-SongKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: V. A Sad Folk SongKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: VI. Leap-FrogKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: VII. LamentKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Pieces for Angela, Op. 47: VIII. Final FanfareKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Four Romantic Pieces, Op. 95: I. Molto moderatoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Four Romantic Pieces, Op. 95: II. Presto capricciosoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Four Romantic Pieces, Op. 95: III. Adagio moltoKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
Four Romantic Pieces, Op. 95: IV. Allegro molto e con brioKenneth Leighton, Margaret Fingerhut
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