Marco Grilli presents a captivating exploration of the romantic piano repertoire with his album "Liszt & Chopin," released on June 5, 2014, under the Diapason label. This chamber music collection showcases Grilli's virtuosity and deep connection with the works of two piano giants, Franz Liszt and Frédéric Chopin.
The album opens with Liszt's "Scherzo und Marsch, S. 177," a dynamic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Grilli then transitions into Chopin's "Valses oubliées, S. 215: No. 1, Première valse oubliée," demonstrating his ability to capture the delicate nuances of Chopin's waltzes. The program continues with two of Chopin's most beloved ballades, "Ballade No. 2 in F Major, Op. 38" and "Ballade No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 52," where Grilli's expressive playing brings out the depth and drama of these masterpieces.
The album concludes with Liszt's "Andante spianato et grande polonaise brillante in E-Flat Major, Op. 22," a dazzling display of technical prowess and musicality. Throughout the album, Grilli's playing is marked by a keen sense of phrasing, a rich palette of colors, and a deep understanding of the romantic style. With a total duration of 48 minutes, "Liszt & Chopin" offers a concise yet comprehensive journey through some of the most cherished works of these two great composers, as interpreted by one of today's most compelling pianists.