Chopin & Scriabin: Preludes
Mikhail Pletnev
Deutsche Grammophon 5419773735 (store.deccaclassics.com/products/chopin-scriabin-24-preludes-cd?srsltid=AfmBOorvIu8gwUT_6TdcZw2LGlc5Be-7qAj3MxSpSnUCrf-ejgPCWJqz)
Since winning the gold medal at the International Tchaikovsky competition in 1978, Mikhail Pletnev has enjoyed a stellar career, not only as a pianist but also as a composer and pedagogue. Included among his activities are a large number of recordings for the DG label, both as soloist and conductor. Nevertheless, this latest one presenting Chopin’s 24 Preludes Op.28 and the 24 Preludes Op.11 by Alexander Scriabin, is his first studio recording after a 19-year hiatus.
Romantic legend has it that Chopin composed the preludes while on his ill-fated sojourn in Mallorca with George Sand during the winter of 1839. Yet contemporary sources indicate that they were probably completed before the couple departed. Pletnev approaches these well-loved gems with an elegant sensitivity, perfectly capturing the ever-contrasting – and fleeting – moods while infusing his own personal mark within.
The opening prelude is taken at a much more leisurely pace than is commonly heard and the “Raindrop” Prelude No.15 in D-flat Major makes much less use of the pedal so the repetitive A-flat in the bass-Iine indeed resembles the sound of its namesake. Préludes such as the Third and Eighth reinforce Pletnev’s reputation for formidable technique, while demonstrating keenly balanced phrasing.
Less well known are the Preludes by Scriabin. The Russian composer greatly admired Chopin’s music, and this set similarly covers all 24 major and minor keys while following the same key sequence. Nevertheless, many have a mood of quiet introspection utilizing a lush harmonic language. Pletnev delivers a refined performance, always carefully nuanced, from the delicacy of No.5 to the more strident Nos.6 and 11.
A program of music both familiar and less so – welcome back Mr. Pletnev. It has been a long wait and we hope you’ll favour us with another recording soon.
