Jordi Masó, the pianist on this recording, has won first prizes in many national and international competitions in Spain and has performed extensively across Europe.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Joaquín Turina, the composer, used his piano music to evoke images and memories of real and imagined journeys, infused with his sense of 'costumbrismo' (depiction of local life and customs).
Composition History
The 'Álbum de viaje' (Holiday Album) by Joaquín Turina was inspired by his 1915 tour of Morocco, Gibraltar, and southern Spain, undertaken at the invitation of writer María Lejárraga.
Performer Biography
Jordi Masó has a wide repertoire with a special emphasis on 20th-century music, and has given first performances of many piano works written for him by leading Spanish composers.
Compositional Technique
In 'Gibraltar' from 'Álbum de viaje', Joaquín Turina humorously incorporates the tune of 'God Save the Queen' with Andalusian musical elements.
Composition History
The first piece in 'Álbum de viaje', 'Retrato' (Portrait), was originally titled 'La compañera de viaje' (Travelling Companion) but was changed due to the scandalized reaction of Manuel de Falla, a composer and friend, who disapproved of Turina and María Lejárraga traveling together without their spouses.
Composer Biography
Joaquín Turina was a seasoned traveler, having visited Morocco, the United States, Cuba, and much of Europe, which influenced his musical compositions.
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Granados: Piano Music, Vol. 2
Mompou: Música callada, Vols. 1-4
Joaquín Turina: Piano Works
Granados: Seis piezas sobre cantos populares españolas; Escenas Románticas; Allegro de Concierto
Falla: Siete canciones populares españolas (Arr. for Piano by Ernesto Halffter)
