Credits:

Lyapunov, S.

Description:

Etsuko Hirose's soulful Lyapunov! The long-awaited new recording by Etsuko Hirose, based in Paris. This time it is Sergei Lyapunov's (1859-1924) "Twelve Exercises of Extraordinary Skill". Although this recording was made in memory of Liszt, whom Lyapunov admired, it was originally intended to be a continuation of the remaining 12 pieces from the "12 Super-Exercises," which Liszt had intended to compose 24 pieces in all keys but ended up with only 12 pieces. Lyapunov's music is characterized by beautiful Russian-style melodies, extremely difficult technique, and unusually high voltage, all of which are inherited from his teacher Balakirev. The painting has a strong pictorial quality, and the colorful depictions of folk dances, snowstorms, and the flow of a great river are fascinating. Etsuko Hirose has continued the virtuosity and sustained voltage she demonstrated on the Balakirev album (MIR 181), but with even more power, and she has taken the piano to the extreme limits of its functionality. Not only her precise technique, but also her Russian singing and bright tone are appealing, and "Lullaby" and "Dance of the Fairies" will make you fall in love with listening to them. King International