Leopold Godowsky: 22 Studies on Chopin's Études, for the Left Hand Alone

Featuring

Ivan Ilić
Leopold Godowsky

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Recording & Production

This album was recorded at the Marcel Landowski Auditorium in Paris in July 2009 and July 2010, using a Steinway Model D piano.

Compositional Technique

Godowsky's "Studies on Chopin's Etudes" include 22 pieces written for the left hand alone, effectively inventing a new style of composition.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Godowsky intended his "Studies on Chopin's Etudes" not to replace Chopin's originals, but to enhance understanding of them by building upon their foundation.

Compositional Technique

The 22 studies for the left hand by Godowsky are considered a monumental contribution to piano technique, surpassing Ravel's Piano Concerto for the Left Hand in polyphonic sophistication.

Critical Reception

Godowsky's compositions are so challenging that few pianists attempt them, which has prevented them from becoming part of the mainstream repertoire.

Performer Biography

Ivan Ilić, the pianist on this album, holds degrees in music and mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Premier Prix from the Conservatoire Supérieur de Paris.

Composer Biography

Leopold Godowsky, a pianist and composer, was nicknamed "the Buddha of the piano" by his peers, including Artur Rubinstein, who praised his technique.