Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Ernest Bloch's piano compositions with this enchanting album, released on April 1, 2002, by Chandos. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this collection showcases Bloch's lesser-known yet profoundly expressive works for the piano solo, performed with exquisite artistry by Margaret Fingerhut.
The album opens with "Visions and Prophecies," a five-movement suite that unfolds like a musical narrative, each section revealing a new facet of Bloch's compositional genius. From the contemplative "Poco lento" to the dramatic "Poco agitato," this piece is a journey through a landscape of sound and emotion.
Following this, "Five Sketches in Sepia" offers a series of evocative vignettes, each painted with a rich, sepia-toned palette. Tracks like "Smoke over the City" and "Fireflies" transport the listener to vivid, almost cinematic scenes, while "Uncertainty" and "Epilogue" delve into more introspective territories.
The "Piano Sonata" is a testament to Bloch's mastery of form and structure, with its three distinct movements—"Maestoso ed energico," "Pastorale. Andante," and "Moderato alla marcia"—each offering a unique emotional and rhythmic landscape.
"Enfantines," a delightful suite of ten short pieces, captures the innocence and playfulness of childhood. From the gentle "Lullaby" to the spirited "Joyous March," these tracks are a joyful exploration of youthful exuberance and wonder.
The album concludes with two standalone pieces, "In the Night" and "Nirvana," which offer moments of quiet reflection and serene beauty, providing a fitting finale to this captivating collection.
Whether you're a longtime admirer of Bloch's music or a newcomer eager to explore his works, this album is a treasure trove of musical discovery, showcasing the depth and breadth of Ernest Bloch's piano compositions.
