Nathanaël Gouin - Caprice (LP)

Dive into the intricate world of classical piano with Nathanaël Gouin's captivating album, "Caprice," released on October 13, 2023, under the Mirare label. This chamber music collection is a testament to Gouin's virtuosity and his deep connection with the works of master composers.

The album is a journey through a variety of pieces, starting with Rachmaninoff's "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43," a series of 24 variations that showcase Gouin's technical prowess and emotional depth. The piece is followed by Bach's "Capriccio in B-Flat Major, BWV 992," a six-movement work that offers a blend of contemplative and lively passages.

Gouin's interpretation of Medtner's "8 Piano Pieces, Op. 76: No. 1, Cappriccio in F-Sharp Minor" adds a touch of romanticism to the album. The piece is followed by Rachmaninoff's "Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 35: Book 1," a work that further highlights Gouin's ability to navigate complex compositions with ease.

The album also features Gouin's own composition, "Mignouminek," a piece that offers a glimpse into the artist's creative process. Other notable works include "Valse Caprice No.2 in D-Flat Major, Op. 38" by Glazunov, "3 Caprices: No.1. Enterrar y callar" by Mompou, and "12 Etudes in All the Minor Keys, Op. 39: No. 12, Le Festin d'Esope" by Moszkowski.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, "Caprice" is a comprehensive exploration of the piano repertoire, offering a blend of well-known works and lesser-known gems. Nathanaël Gouin's nuanced performances bring each piece to life, making this album a rewarding experience for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.