Alfredo Casella - Alfredo Casella: Scarlattiana / Pupazzetti / Pagine di guerra / Sonatina / Canzone a ballo / Cocktail's Dance / Ninna nanna / Quattro favole romanesche / Tre canzoni trecentesche (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alfredo Casella's neoclassical masterpieces with this enchanting album, released on August 10, 2009, under the label La Bottega Discantica. Spanning a diverse range of compositions, this collection offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences that showcase Casella's versatility and brilliance.

The album opens with "Scarlattiana: Divertimento su musiche di Domenico Scarlatti per pianoforte e piccola orchestra," a five-movement work that reimagines the music of Domenico Scarlatti in a fresh, orchestral context. Each movement, from the lively "Sinfonia" to the playful "Capriccio" and the serene "Pastorale," demonstrates Casella's ability to blend classical influences with his own unique voice.

Following this, "Pupazzetti, per orchestra da camera" invites you into a whimsical world of puppet-like characters, brought to life through delicate and expressive orchestration. The "Pagine di guerra per pianoforte a quattro mani" series offers a stark contrast, with its vivid depictions of wartime scenes, from the heavy artillery in Belgium to the ruins of Reims and the charging Cossacks in Russia.

Casella's solo piano works, including the "Sonatina per pianoforte, Op. 28" and the playful "Cocktail's Dance," showcase his mastery of the instrument and his ability to create engaging, melodic pieces. The "Canzone a ballo" and "Ninna nanna" add a touch of lyrical beauty and tenderness to the collection.

Vocal enthusiasts will delight in the "Quattro favole romanesche di Trilussa per canto e pianoforte," a set of four humorous and poignant tales set to music, and the "Tre canzoni trecentesche per canto e pianoforte," which brings medieval poetry to life with Casella's evocative compositions.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a testament to Alfredo Casella's enduring legacy as a composer of profound depth and creativity. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this collection offers a compelling journey through the diverse landscapes of his musical imagination.