Skalkottas: Cycle Concert

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of Nikos Skalkottas with "Skalkottas: Cycle Concert," a remarkable collection of chamber works that showcase the composer's unique voice and innovative spirit. Released in 1995 by Decca Music Group Ltd., this album features a stunning array of pieces performed by some of the most renowned musicians in the classical genre.

The album kicks off with the Quartet No. 1 for Piano and Winds, a dynamic and engaging piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The Concertino for Oboe and Piano follows, offering a blend of playful and pastoral themes that highlight the versatility of Skalkottas' compositional style. The Sonata Concertante for Bassoon and Piano adds a layer of depth and complexity, with its lively Allegro molto vivace and the more introspective Andantino.

One of the standout tracks is the Concertino for Trumpet and Piano, a piece that showcases the brilliance of Håkan Hardenberger's trumpet playing. The album concludes with the Quartet No. 2 for Piano and Winds, which includes a lively Tango and a Foxtrot that add a touch of jazz-inspired rhythm to the classical repertoire.

Recorded in February 1994 at the Salle de Musique in La-Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, this album benefits from exceptional acoustics and top-notch performances. With a duration of just under 50 minutes, "Skalkottas: Cycle Concert" is a compact yet rich exploration of Skalkottas' musical genius, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Skalkottas or new to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to his unique and innovative approach to composition.

May 1, 1995

℗ 1995 Universal International Music B.V.

About Nikos Skalkottas

Nikos Skalkottas, a pivotal figure in 20th-century classical music, stands out as one of Greece's most influential composers. Born in Chalkis in 1904, Skalkottas was a prodigious talent from a young age, beginning his violin studies at just five years old. His musical journey led him to become a key member of the Second Viennese School, where he absorbed influences from both classical traditions and Greek folk music. Skalkottas' compositions are renowned for their innovative use of atonality, reflecting his association with the likes of Arnold Schoenberg. Throughout his career, he crafted a diverse body of work that includes chamber music, piano compositions, and orchestral pieces, all marked by his unique musical language. Despite his untimely death in 1949, Skalkottas' legacy endures, making him a cornerstone of Greek classical music and a composer whose works continue to captivate audiences worldwide.