Paul Ben-Haim - Paul Ben-Haim, Vol. 2: Piano & Chamber Works (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of Paul Ben-Haim with his second volume of piano and chamber works, released on October 2, 2020, under Centaur Records, Inc. This album is a testament to Ben-Haim's unique compositional style, blending rich melodies with intricate rhythms, offering a diverse collection of pieces that showcase his versatility and depth.

The album opens with the five-movement suite "Music for Piano, Op. 53," each piece titled Dedication, Melody, Rhythm, Movement, and Epilogue, respectively. These works are followed by the evocative "Variations on a Hebrew Melody, Op. 22," a piece that reflects Ben-Haim's Israeli heritage. The album continues with the soothing "Pastorale variée, Op. 31b," presented here in its version for clarinet and piano, and the dynamic "Improvisation & Dance, Op. 30."

The second half of the album is dedicated to another five-movement suite, "Music for Piano, Op. 67," with pieces titled Slow, Moderately Fast, Moderato, Lively, Very Moderate, Very Fast, and Rather Slow. This suite, along with the other works on the album, demonstrates Ben-Haim's ability to explore a wide range of tempos and moods.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Paul Ben-Haim's piano and chamber works. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ben-Haim's music or a newcomer looking to explore his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.