Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Sergei Lyapunov's piano music with the captivating album "Russian Piano Music Series, Vol. 4 - Lyapunov." This collection, released on April 1, 2013, under the Divine Art label, showcases the brilliance of Lyapunov, a composer who, though lesser-known in the West, stands as a titan of Russian Romanticism. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, the album features 13 tracks, including the sumptuous Piano Sonata in F Minor, Op. 27, and the virtuosic Barcarolle in G-Sharp Minor, Op. 46.
Anthony Goldstone, a versatile and highly skilled pianist, brings Lyapunov's compositions to life with his interpretive acumen and all-encompassing technique. Goldstone's performance is a testament to his broad repertory and his ability to capture the essence of Lyapunov's music, which is brilliantly constructed and rich in emotion.
The album opens with the powerful Piano Sonata in F Minor, Op. 27, a piece that exemplifies Lyapunov's unashamedly romantic style. The sonata is followed by a series of variations and the enchanting "Fetes de Noel (Svyatki)," a suite that captures the spirit of Christmas. The album concludes with a Nocturne in D-Flat Major, Op. 8, and a Mazurka No. 8 in G Minor, Op. 36, both of which showcase Lyapunov's mastery of form and melody.
Lyapunov's music, though not as widely recognized as that of his contemporaries Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov, is a treasure trove of high Romanticism. This album is a perfect introduction to his work, offering a glimpse into the world of a composer who, despite his relative obscurity, left behind a legacy of brilliantly crafted and deeply moving music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Russian piano music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.