ROMANTIC PIANO MASTERS – MARIAM BATSASHVILI

In her latest release, “Romantic Piano Masters,” Mariam Batsashvili delves into a rich tapestry of musical artistry from the Romantic era, presenting an insightful collection of Liszt’s operatic ‘paraphrases’ and transcriptions from other composers that illuminate their brilliance and contrasts.

The album’s inception transports us to the vibrant 19th-century virtuosic landscape, commencing with Liszt’s evocative transcription of scenes from Gounod’s “Faust.” Batsashvili’s rendition masterfully encapsulates the dramatic essence of these extracts, deftly comparing Liszt’s innovation with the conventional pianistic effects characterizing Thalberg’s Caprice on arias from Bellini’s “La sonnambula.” The pianist expertly communicates Liszt’s ‘paraphrase,’ allowing her sound to unfold gracefully, like petals of an opening flower, enveloping the listener in a realm of profound emotions and vivid imagery.

Batsashvili’s mastery and finely calibrated control become evident throughout the album. Her interpretation of Liszt’s Schubert transcriptions reveals her profound respect for the material. Influenced by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s nuanced style, Batsashvili maintains an exquisite equilibrium between romanticism and restraint. This equilibrium is beautifully portrayed in her performance of “Ständchen,” which exudes conviviality, and “Aufenthalt,” where she intertwines pleasure and pain into a poignant blend. A standout moment emerges in her rendering of Liszt’s rarely-encountered “Die Loreley,” as she captures its fleeting allure, allowing the music to shimmer momentarily before gracefully fading away.

While the inclusion of a Chopin waltz might initially appear unconventional, Batsashvili’s astute programming seamlessly integrates it into the album, enriching the overall narrative without disrupting the spell she casts over the listener. Her musicality remains consistently evident, weaving unexpected pairings into a seamless tapestry.

“Romantic Piano Masters” showcases Batsashvili’s exceptional artistry, shedding light on the contrasting approaches of Romantic-era virtuosos and celebrating the intricate compositions they left behind. This release invites listeners to immerse themselves in the world of Romantic piano music through the lens of one of today’s most remarkable pianists. With its compelling performances and thoughtful programming, this record is a must-listen for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the profound realm of Romantic-era piano music.