Tableaux Suite Bergamasque

Aldo Ciccolini's 'Tableaux Suite Bergamasque' is a masterful compilation of classical piano pieces, showcasing the artist's technical prowess and emotional depth. Released on 2 June 2010 by Parlophone (France), this album is a treasure trove of iconic compositions, including Mussorgsky's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' and Debussy's 'Suite bergamasque'.

The album begins with Mussorgsky's 'Pictures at an Exhibition', a suite of movements that evoke vivid imagery and tell a story of artistic expression. Ciccolini's nuanced playing brings to life the intricate details of each piece, from the whimsical 'Gnome' to the majestic 'Great Gate of Kiev'.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the works of Debussy, with 'Suite bergamasque' being a highlight. This suite is a showcase of Debussy's unique impressionist style, with pieces like 'Clair de lune' and 'Passepied' demonstrating his ability to craft beautiful, evocative music. Ciccolini's interpretation of these pieces is both delicate and powerful, bringing out the subtleties of Debussy's composition.

Additional works by Debussy, including 'Tarantelle styrienne', 'Rêverie', and 'Pour le piano', further demonstrate Ciccolini's mastery of the composer's oeuvre. The album concludes with Debussy's '2 Arabesques', a fitting finale to this classical piano extravaganza.

With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, 'Tableaux Suite Bergamasque' is a substantial and satisfying listening experience. Aldo Ciccolini's exceptional skill and artistry make this album a must-have for fans of classical piano music.

Aldo Ciccolini, the renowned Italian-born French pianist, captivated audiences worldwide with his distinctive pearly, translucent tone and remarkable technical agility. Born in Naples in 1925, Ciccolini began his piano journey at a tender age and quickly showcased his prodigious talent, gaining entrance to prestigious institutions at just nine years old. Throughout his illustrious career, Ciccolini became particularly celebrated for his interpretations of French music, although his repertoire spanned a wide range of classical piano works, from Tchaikovsky and Liszt to Schubert and Debussy. His recordings, such as the comprehensive collection of Erik Satie's piano works, remain cherished by classical music enthusiasts. Ciccolini's legacy as a distinguished pianist and dedicated pedagogue continues to inspire, reflecting his deep love and serious commitment to the art of piano playing.