An early critic, Ludwig Rellstab, unfavorably compared Chopin's nocturnes to John Field's, suggesting Chopin exaggerated Field's delicate impressions into something coarse.
Performer Biography
Vincenzo Maltempo is one of the few performers to have played the entire collection of Alkan's colossal 'Douze études dans toutes les tons mineurs' Op. 39 in a single recital.
Interpretation
Vincenzo Maltempo's approach to Chopin is informed by recordings of Chopin's 'grand-pupils' like Raoul Pugno and Alfred Cortot, who used a freer interpretation of the score.
Performer Biography
Vincenzo Maltempo is considered a leading interpreter of Charles Valentin Alkan, a French composer, and has recorded his most important works.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Chopin's Nocturnes were described by Franz Liszt as singing not only harmonies of delight but also the restless bewilderment they often cause.
Recording & Production
This album presents one of countless possibilities to interpret Chopin's Nocturnes, aiming to connect the listener, performer, and composer.
Compositional Technique
The nocturne genre, as developed by John Field, featured impressionistic pedal effects and wide-spread arpeggiated accompaniments to make the instrument hum.
