Delve into the intricacies of Rachmaninoff's Preludes, Op. 3 #2; 23 & 32 [24], as masterfully interpreted by pianist Maurizio Zaccaria. The journey begins with the ethereal "Prelude" from the 5 Morceaux de fantaisie, Op. 3. Composed when Rachmaninoff was just 19, this piece unveils his early brilliance, foreshadowing the profound compositions to come.
The Op. 23 preludes, penned during a period of personal turmoil for Rachmaninoff, offer a spectrum of emotions. The F-Sharp Minor Prelude exudes melancholy, while the B-Flat Major Prelude enchants with its lyrical beauty. The D Minor Prelude, renowned for its powerful chords, adds a dramatic flair, seamlessly transitioning into the bright and majestic D Major Prelude. Each prelude in this collection reveals a facet of Rachmaninoff's emotional depth.
Transitioning to the Op. 32 preludes, Rachmaninoff's growth as a composer becomes apparent. The delicate gem of the C Major Prelude contrasts with the brooding B-Flat Minor Prelude. The E Major Prelude shines with its cascading arpeggios, while the introspective E Minor Prelude invites contemplation. The triumphant F Major Prelude foreshadows the emotional intensity of the subsequent A Minor Prelude.
As Zaccaria navigates these preludes, listeners embark on a historical and emotional journey transcending the boundaries of time. His nuanced interpretations breathe life into each piece, inviting audiences to explore the depth and complexity of Rachmaninoff's genius.
Zaccaria's chosen instrument, a Steinway D-274 selected by Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli in the early '70s and part of the OnClassical collection, possesses a tone simultaneously deep and brilliant, rich in character and poetry. Combined with Zaccaria's innovative, flowing, and eloquent interpretation, it creates a magnificent fusion.
This recording was performed "live" with minimal editing, capturing the authenticity and spontaneity of the performance.