The World of Variation

Dive into the world of classical piano virtuosity with György Cziffra's "The World of Variation," a captivating album released on September 3, 2021, under the Archipel label. This collection showcases Cziffra's extraordinary technical prowess and interpretive depth, featuring a diverse range of variations that highlight his mastery of the piano.

The album opens with Beethoven's "7 Variations on 'God Save the King,'" a piece that demonstrates Cziffra's ability to infuse classical themes with his unique musical voice. Following this, the album delves into Beethoven's "12 Variations on the Russian Dance from the Ballet 'Das Waldmädchen'" and "32 Variations in C Minor," both of which offer a glimpse into the composer's innovative approach to variation form.

Cziffra's interpretation of Johannes Brahms' "Variations on a Theme by Paganini" is a standout feature, presented in two books that showcase the composer's intricate and harmonically rich variations. The album concludes with Cziffra's virtuosic rendition of the "Tarantelle di bravura," based on Auber's opera "La muette de Portici," a piece that showcases his dazzling technique and flair for dramatic performance.

With a duration of approximately one hour, "The World of Variation" is a testament to György Cziffra's enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of variation form in classical music.

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.