Liszt: Années de pèlerinage, S. 160-163 - Gesualdo & Marenzio: Madrigals

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano and chamber music with Ragna Schirmer's exquisite album, "Liszt: Années de pèlerinage, S. 160-163 - Gesualdo & Marenzio: Madrigals." Released on October 14, 2011, under the Berlin Classics label, this album is a testament to Schirmer's virtuosity and her deep connection with the romantic and introspective compositions of Franz Liszt and the intricate, often haunting madrigals of Carlo Gesualdo and Luca Marenzio.

Spanning an impressive three hours and twenty-one minutes, this collection is divided into three parts, each reflecting different stages of Liszt's spiritual and artistic journey. The first part, "Années de pèlerinage: Suisse," is a series of piano pieces inspired by Liszt's travels in Switzerland, evoking vivid landscapes and emotional landscapes alike. The second part, "Années de pèlerinage: Italie," draws inspiration from Italian art and poetry, while the third part, "Années de pèlerinage: Troisième année," delves into deeper spiritual themes.

Interspersed among Liszt's works are the madrigals of Gesualdo and Marenzio, offering a rich contrast and complement to the piano pieces. Gesualdo's chromatic innovations and Marenzio's expressive word-painting add layers of complexity and beauty to the album.

Ragna Schirmer's performance is nothing short of breathtaking. Her technical prowess and emotional depth bring these compositions to life, making this album a profound and enriching experience for any classical music enthusiast. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Liszt or new to the world of classical piano, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.