Variations [CD]

Following his 'glorious' Shostakovich concertos recording which was named a BBC Music Magazine Concerto Choice, Simon Trpceski releases his first solo piano album for Linn. Hailed for his powerful virtuosity, deeply expressive approach and charismatic stage presence, the pianist has recorded five sets of variations by Mozart, Brahms and Beethoven. In addition to Mozart's simple, elegant Variations on Salve tu Domine, and his practically unknown Variations on Come un agnello, the recital includes Brahms's multi-layered, highly romantic Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann, Op. 9, plus Beethoven's Variations on the Russian Dance, whose classical style belies the composer's quintessential fierceness. Beethoven's substantial Variations on an Original Theme in C minor, whose eight-measure theme based on a descending chromatic bass sets off a whirlwind of uninterrupted variations, draws the recital to a close. The wide range of emotions expressed in these variations showcase Trpceski's own extraordinary range.