The Masters Collection: György Cziffra

Immerse yourself in the virtuosity of György Cziffra with "The Masters Collection: György Cziffra," a sprawling three-disc compilation that showcases the pianist's extraordinary range and technical prowess. Released in 2019 by Hungaroton, this collection spans a generous 3 hours and 44 minutes, featuring 31 tracks that highlight Cziffra's mastery of the classical piano repertoire.

The album opens with Franz Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, a work that demands both technical brilliance and interpretive depth, which Cziffra delivers with characteristic flair. The collection also includes a selection of Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsodies, showcasing Cziffra's ability to infuse these iconic pieces with both passion and precision. Cziffra's interpretations of these rhapsodies are renowned for their energy and virtuosity, making them a highlight of the collection.

Beyond Liszt, the album explores a variety of genres and styles, from the romantic elegance of George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" to the playful charm of Johann Strauss II's "An der schönen blauen Donau" and "Tritsch-Tratsch Polka," both arranged for piano by Cziffra himself. The collection also features Cziffra's arrangements of operatic themes, including paraphrases from Verdi's "Rigoletto" and Wagner's "Tannhäuser," demonstrating his ability to translate orchestral grandeur to the piano.

Cziffra's own compositions and arrangements are also well-represented, including his dynamic rendition of the "Tarantelle di bravura" and his unique interpretations of Hungarian dances. The album concludes with a selection of Liszt's "Études d'exécution transcendante," a series of technical studies that push the boundaries of piano technique and showcase Cziffra's unparalleled skill.

"György Cziffra" is a testament to the pianist's enduring legacy and his unique ability to bring fresh insights to both familiar and lesser-known works. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Cziffra's playing or a newcomer to his artistry, this collection offers a comprehensive overview of his remarkable career and his enduring contribution to the world of classical piano.

György Cziffra, born in Budapest in 1921, was a Hungarian-French pianist renowned for his extraordinary virtuosity and unique interpretations. A protégé of Ernő Dohnányi, who studied under Liszt's favourite pupil, Cziffra's career spanned the postwar decades, leaving an indelible mark on the European classical music scene. His performances were nothing short of electrifying, often leaving critics awestruck and bewildered by his rapacious technique and profound musicality. Cziffra's repertoire was vast, but he was particularly celebrated for his renditions of Liszt and Chopin. His recordings, such as the complete works of Liszt on EMI France, offer a testament to his artistry and remain essential listening for classical piano enthusiasts. Cziffra passed away in 1994, but his legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century endures.