Robert Armbruster - Eau Bleu Ciel. Piano Arrangements of Handel, Haydn, Wagner and Faure (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with Robert Armbruster's latest album, "Eau Bleu Ciel: Piano Arrangements of Handel, Haydn, Wagner, and Fauré." This captivating collection, set to release on March 12, 2024, under the Novus Promusica label, offers a unique blend of timeless compositions expertly arranged for solo piano. Spanning a generous 1 hour and 55 minutes, the album is a testament to Armbruster's virtuosity and his deep reverence for these classical masters.

The album opens with a lively rendition of Handel's "Water Music Suite: Hornpipe," arranged by Percy Grainger, setting the stage for a journey through the centuries. Armbruster's delicate touch and nuanced phrasing bring a fresh perspective to the familiar melodies of Handel's "The Messiah" and Haydn's Sonata in D, Hob.XVI:37. The album also features exquisite arrangements of Wagner's operatic masterpieces, including the dramatic "Magic Fire Music" from "Die Walküre" and the poignant "Liebestod" from "Tristan und Isolde."

Armbruster's interpretations are not merely technical showcases but deeply expressive performances that reveal the emotional core of each piece. His arrangement of Fauré's "Dolly Suite" and the evocative "North Country Sketches" by Philip Heseltine demonstrate his versatility and sensitivity as an artist. The album concludes with the lively "Brigg Fair," an English rhapsody arranged by Grainger, leaving the listener with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

"Eau Bleu Ciel" is a celebration of the piano's expressive range and a tribute to the enduring power of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Armbruster's performances are sure to captivate and inspire. This album is a must-experience for anyone who appreciates the beauty and depth of classical piano music.