Search - Matti Raekallio :: Paganini Studies

Shimmer and sparkle

Alejandra Vernon | Long Beach, California | 08/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These keyboard studies are stunning in their often flashy complexity, but also have a wonderful, simple beauty to them.
The Liszt "Six Paganini Studies" are glittering delights, played with brilliance and astounding virtuosity. Some of the melodies are old musical friends, like the famous "La Campanella" (track # 3), and perhaps the most familiar of all, on track # 6, which is used in the other 2 compositions, as well as the Rachmaninoff "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini".The Ignaz Friedman (1882-1948) "Studies" Op. 47 have a more romantic feel to them; less hurried, softer, and are played with enormous feeling and sensitivity. Friedman, it is noted in the liner notes, was "one of the greatest piano virtuosi of the early 20th century", and was known for his "technique of double notes", which is why Op. 47 is "shot though with double-note texture".
The Brahms "Variations on a Theme by Paganini" has, as one would imagine, the most "forte" passages on the CD; it is a strong, marvelous piece, with a powerful finale.This is the first time I have heard Matti Raekallio, and I am astounded by his technical mastery and artistry. Born in Finland, he has that special "touch" that makes a good pianist great.
The sound is crystal clear, and the total time is 62:44."

Listen to the sample clips and you'll know why....

Alejandra Vernon | 07/20/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Franz Liszt is among the most beloved composers. Every pianist (especially the more advanced ones) would fall in love with Liszt the way they do for Chopin. His pieces are challenging but irresistible. The first piece by Liszt I fell in love with was La Capanella. I have a collection of La Campanella played by different pianists, including this one. Frankly, this one is my favorite. Very beautiful, poetic, and each note acts like a soft touch to the very bottom of your heart. The other pieces in this CD are very great also, but just La Campanella alone is worth buying already. Listen to the sample clips and you'll feel it for yourself...."