Celebrate the extraordinary virtuosity of legendary pianist Earl Wild with "Living History," a remarkable album released in 2005 to commemorate his 90th birthday. Recorded at the age of 88, this collection showcases Wild's enduring technical prowess and artistic evolution, featuring a diverse repertoire that spans centuries of classical piano music.
The album opens with J.S. Bach's Partita for Keyboard No. 1 in B-Flat Major, BWV 825, a stunning display of Wild's ability to interpret Baroque masterpieces with clarity and precision. The program continues with Ludwig van Beethoven's Sonata No. 4 in F Sharp Major, Op. 30, highlighting Wild's dynamic range and expressive depth. César Franck's Prélude, Choral, et Fugue, M. 21, and Alexander Scriabin's Fantasiestücke (8 Fantasy Pieces), Op. 12, further demonstrate Wild's affinity for Romantic and post-Romantic repertoire, with each piece performed with remarkable sensitivity and nuance.
Throughout the album, Wild's playing is characterized by its clarity, precision, and expressive depth, making "Living History" an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Earl Wild or discovering his artistry for the first time, this album offers a captivating journey through the piano repertoire, performed by one of the 20th century's most celebrated pianists. With a running time of 1 hour and 14 minutes, "Living History" is a testament to Wild's enduring legacy and his unparalleled contributions to the world of classical piano.
2005 Ivory Classics2005 Ivory Classics
About Earl Wild
Earl Wild (1915-2010) was a titan of the piano, renowned for his extraordinary versatility and virtuosic technique. Hailing from the United States, Wild was celebrated as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, often hailed as America's finest. His repertoire spanned an impressive range, from the grand Romantic tradition to jazz, showcasing his remarkable ability to transcend musical boundaries. Wild was also a prolific transcriber, creating iconic works such as his famous 'Porgy & Bess Fantasy'. His recordings, made well into his late eighties, continue to inspire, demonstrating his enduring mastery and evolution as an artist.
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Earl Wild
