COMPOSERS: Smetana
LABELS: Supraphon
WORKS: Czech Dances, Series II; Six Characteristic Pieces
PERFORMER: Jan Novotny´ (piano)
CATALOGUE NO: SU 3070-2 AAD 1972/80
These two sets of piano pieces come from near the beginning and end of Smetana’s composing career. The Czech Dances, with their dazzling virtuosity and rich, often quirky harmonies are a delight and in this idiomatic performance repay careful listening. The Six Characteristic Pieces, though early, are full of fascinating detail and abound with pre-echoes of Smetana’s later style. In both sets, Jan Novotny´ tempers the fireworks with intelligent expressiveness and impressive rhythmic control. Jan Smaczny
Smetana: Czech Dances, Series II; Six Characteristic Pieces
These two sets of piano pieces come from near the beginning and end of Smetana’s composing career. The Czech Dances, with their dazzling virtuosity and rich, often quirky harmonies are a delight and in this idiomatic performance repay careful listening. The Six Characteristic Pieces, though early, are full of fascinating detail and abound with pre-echoes of Smetana’s later style. In both sets, Jan Novotny´ tempers the fireworks with intelligent expressiveness and impressive rhythmic control. Jan Smaczny
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:37 pm