Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943)
Sonata No. 2, Op. 36 in B Flat Minor (First Version); 5 Morceaux de Fantasie Op. 3; Variations on a Theme of Corelli, Op. 42
(piano)
Arts SACD 47761

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Alessandro Mazzamuto is a talented pianist and this CD is sufficient to show that he has a subtle and perfect understanding of Rachmaninoff. The choice to record the first and longer version of the 2nd Sonata should be highly respected. The bottom line of his interpretation is avoiding all show and extravagancy. This may sound simplistic but when you listen to the CD you will understand that Mazzamuto is perfectly in command and does what he intends immaculately. Many pianists fall into the trap of making showpieces out of Rachmaninoff and whereas some escape the trick, Mazzamuto goes further to explore the music of the composer. The Op. 3 pieces are elegantly played, even the famous second one, and treated with touching colours. The Corelli Variations is the high point of the recording. The pianist specifically aims to find a link between the times of Corelli and Rachmaninoff and manages. A pianist to watch and a CD to listen to…

Feyzi Erçin