You can’t fault pianist Denis Kozhukhin of being one dimensional in regards to his choice of repertoire. After albums with music from the 18th century (Haydn Piano Sonatas), the 19th century (Tchaikovsky and Grieg Concertos, Brahms solo music), and the 20th century (Prokofiev’s “War Sonatas” and Ravel and Gershwin Concertos), comes this release, which offers another, more intimate side to this musician.
Right from the first track you could hear this is special. Kozhukhin’s tone is magical, with each finger creating a different timbre. This is achieved by clever usage of the sustaining pedal, taking advantage of the piano’s long sustain and overtones but more than anything – his sensitive ear to the possibilities of this music.
Highlights from the Mendelssohn songs are many, but as an example listen to the famous “Duetto” (track 8), and hear how Kozhukhin brings to the fore each “soloist”, keeping the crowded accompaniment characteristic without enforcing it too harshly on the main melodic line. Op. 19 No. 3 (track 3) is celebratory without being ponderous and Op. 30 No. 2 (track 5) is suspenseful but manages to remain warm and calm. Op. 38 No. 2 (track 7) uses the complementary rhythm as a force that moves the music forward instead of bitting monotonously.
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Moving to Grieg’s “Lyric Pieces”, which occupies half of the album, the magic continues with an even greater sense of intimacy and humble simplicity (hear to the first Arietta, track 13, as an example). The dance elements that prevail in many of these short pieces (tracks 14, 15, 19, 22, 26) are presented with a subtle smile rather than a predictable jumpiness. One has to go back to famous accounts by Gilels and Andsnes to experience a performance of such dedication.
More praises seem redundant, maybe just adding that the engineering team had caught all the subtleties of Kozhukhin’s instrument with a close recording that still has sufficient resonant to it (recorded at the Muziekcentrum van de Omroep in Hilversum, The Netherlands). If you care for any of these two composers, or have any preference for piano music for that matter, go and buy this album. Highly recommended.
Grieg – Lyric Pieces (excerpts)
Mendelssohn – Songs Without Words (excerpts)
Denis Kozhukhin – Piano
Pentatone, Hybrid SACD PTC518734
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