Credits:

Takeshi Yamada

Description:

Around 1910, artistic imagination flourished in many parts of the world. This disc contains "Etudes (Etudes = Exercises)" written by three composers during this period. The first piece is "Four Etudes, Op. 7" by the young Stravinsky in 1908, which conveys enthusiasm and excitement. Then comes the "12 Exercises, Op. 33," written by Szymanowski in 1916 as a showcase of his own musical language. Finally, the "Picturesque Exercises, Op. 39," written in 1916-17, showcases Rachmaninoff's highly polished pianism. Each of these works is not intended as "practice" for the performer's fingers or technique, but rather as a "source" for the composer to create new sounds, writing styles, and ideas. Yamada carefully reads the technical and complex scores that hold the thoughts of the composers, and then refines the music into a full and rich musical experience. Yamada's imaginative expression full of individuality will captivate the listener's ear. (C)RS