Credits:

Nikolai Kapustin

Description:

Andante Op. 58, which will be included in the newly released score, is included on this disc. Fashionable, languid, and jazzy, this piece is one of Capustin's most popular piano pieces, and it seems imperative that Lesnar, who picked up the score, would seek out an album of his own compositions. Also included here are piano sonatas Nos. 2 and 3, with the second sonata in particular being one of Capustin's most popular sonatas. Amran has performed it in Japan before, Nikolai Petrov has recorded it, and it is one of the most familiar pieces. However, Kapustin's playing is masculine, supported by a strong, disciplined technique and sharp percussion, and while maintaining a solid sense of rhythm and tempo, his performance is more massive than that of other artists, with the force of a heavy tank charging toward you. It could be described as cool and hard-edged, unlike the sweet, crushing jazz feel. Imported sheet music for this work is also available from the UK and can be found at the same time in stores. Sonata No. 3 is what Capustin calls an experimental work, and from this point on through No. 6, the composer was exploring different piano sonata styles.The cello and saxophone work included at the end is a rare example of Capustin's chamber music for other instruments, as his piano works are by far the most well-known at this time. The cello and saxophone works are ideal for those who want to enjoy Kapustin on instruments other than the piano. The saxophone piece in particular has a modern saxophone sound that matches well with Capoustin's cool music.