Rufus Choi identifies strongly with the Russian school of technique and artistry, a unique trait for an American pianist.
Cultural Impact
Liszt reinvented the entire concert experience in the early 19th century by introducing the solo recital and expanding the piano repertoire with his innovative compositions.
Composer Biography
Franz Liszt (1811-1886) was a "wunderkind, matinee idol, showman extraordinaire, and pioneer virtuoso pianist" who became a pre-eminent figure of the Romantic Period.
Composer's Artistic Vision
A recurring theme in Liszt's music, and a focus of this album, is his fascination with ideas of temptation and the devil's influence.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in May 2011 in Los Angeles, California, and features a Steinway D piano.
Performer Biography
Rufus Choi, the pianist on this album, won First Prize and the People's Choice Award in the Jose Iturbi International Music Competition, which offers one of the largest monetary prizes for piano competitions.
