Gaining in popularity but still woefully underappreciated, the music of Romanian composer
George Enescu offers something for virtually any listener.
Enescu composed throughout his long life, and his styles changed fluidly as his writing matured. From lush romantic writing to angular rhythmically driven pieces to atonality and heterophony,
Enescu visited it all. This Albany Records album focuses on works written later in
Enescu's life, including the final composition he was to complete: the Chamber Symphony, Op. 33. The disc opens with the Impressions from Childhood" Suite, Op. 28. Originally written for violin and piano, it was transcribed by
Enescu contemporary Teodor Grigoriu to great effect. Renowned Romanian violinist Sherban Lupu delivers a stunning, captivating performance of this fiendishly difficult piece. The 10 short movements are marvelously effective at evoking the various childhood scenes; Lupu's effortless execution ensures listeners are able to focus on the content and meaning of the music, rather than its technical demands. The Op. 33 Chamber Symphony is possibly one of
Enescu's most difficult-to-digest compositions. Largely atonal, the symphony explores many avant-garde techniques, unusual voicings, and unique harmonies. While it may be a bit difficult to follow for listeners not yet familiar with
Enescu's musical development, fans of the composer will relish in the rare opportunity to hear a well-recorded performance. The album closes with the Op. 30 Piano Quartet, also written late in
Enescu's life. Of the three works on the program, this one receives the weakest performance. Intonation and articulation issues among the strings are indicative of the three top-notch performers who are nonetheless unfamiliar with playing with one another. Overall, though, this album will certainly be enjoyed by admirers of this underappreciated composer.