Benjamin Frith, a renowned pianist with an illustrious career spanning decades, presents "The Essential Benjamin Frith," a comprehensive collection of his extraordinary work. This album, set for release on June 9, 2025, under the Naxos Special Projects label, is a testament to Frith's virtuosity and his deep connection with classical piano repertoire.
From the tender age of ten, Benjamin Frith studied under the esteemed Fanny Waterman, and his prodigious talent was evident when he won the National Concerto competition at just fourteen. This album encapsulates the breadth of his artistry, featuring a diverse selection of pieces that showcase his technical brilliance and emotional depth.
"The Essential Benjamin Frith" spans a generous duration of 2 hours and 19 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of classical piano music. The tracklist includes iconic compositions such as Nocturne No. 2 in C Minor, Etude in F Minor, and Scherzo a capriccio in F-Sharp Minor, among others. Each piece is meticulously performed, highlighting Frith's ability to bring out the nuances and subtleties of the music.
Collaborating with esteemed orchestras and musicians, including the Ulster Orchestra, Robert Plane, and JoAnn Falletta, Frith delivers a performance that is both captivating and profound. The album is a celebration of his extensive discography, featuring works by composers such as John Field, Felix Mendelssohn, and many more.
For both longtime admirers and new listeners, "The Essential Benjamin Frith" is an essential addition to any classical music collection. It offers a profound insight into the artistic journey of one of the most respected pianists of our time. Whether you are drawn to the lyrical beauty of the nocturnes or the technical prowess of the etudes, this album promises a deeply rewarding listening experience.
2025 Naxos Records2025 Naxos Records
Tracks
Nocturne No. 2 in C Minor, H. 25John Field, Benjamin Frith
Etude in F MinorFelix Mendelssohn, Benjamin Frith
II. AdagioCarl Maria von Weber, Benjamin Frith, RTE Sinfonietta, Proinnsias O'Duinn
Sospiri, Op. 70 (Arr. E. Griffiths for violin and piano)Edward Elgar, Marat Bisengaliev, Benjamin Frith
Nocturne No. 5 in B-Flat Major, H 37John Field, Benjamin Frith
II. InnigRobert Schumann, Benjamin Frith
Fugue No. 2Felix Mendelssohn, Benjamin Frith
II. LarghettoJohn Field, Benjamin Frith, Royal Northern Sinfonia, David Haslam
AndanteDomenico Scarlatti, Benjamin Frith
Des AbendsRobert Schumann, Benjamin Frith
No. 1, Sanft und mit EmpfindungFelix Mendelssohn, Benjamin Frith
II. AdagioCarl Maria von Weber, Benjamin Frith, RTE Sinfonietta, Proinnsias O'Duinn
Romance, Op. 1Edward Elgar, Marat Bisengaliev, Benjamin Frith
V. EinfachRobert Schumann, Benjamin Frith
II. Air Ecossais "Within a mile of Edinburgh town": Adagio non troppoJohn Field, Benjamin Frith, Royal Northern Sinfonia, Robert Stankovsky