Slavka Pechocova - Schumann & Chopin (2011) [SACD]

An improbable series of portraits/masks and Carnival scenes, animated by a Czech pianist who imposes a lively, naturally virtuoso style but without vain outpourings and languor that would denature these pieces from 1843-46, the very essence of the Romantic piano, alongside Liszt. Slávka Pěchočová’s playing reflects the rigour of her first teacher, Martin Hršel, and the almost-Impressionistic expressiveness of her second, the famous Professor Ivan Moravec.

Tracks:

Robert Schumann: Carnaval, Op. 9

01. Préambule
02. Pierrot
03. Arlequin
04. Valse noble
05. Eusebius
06. Florestan
07. Coquette
08. Réplique
09. Papillons
10. ASCH-SCHA (Lettres dansantes)
11. Chiarina
12. Chopin
13. Estrella
14. Reconnaisance
15. Pantalon et Colombine
16. Valse allemande
17. Paganini
18. Aveu
19. Promenade
20. Pause
21. Marche des Davidsbündler contre les Philistins

Frédéric Chopin

22. Ballade No. 3 in A flat major, Op. 47
23. Nocturne No. 13 in c minor, Op. 48/1
24. Scherzo No. 4 in E major, Op. 54
25. Fantaie in f minor, Op. 49

Personnel:

Slávka Pechocová (piano)