MOZART. THE COMPLETE PIANO SONATAS – MAO FUJITA

Mao Fujita, the prodigious 22-year-old pianist, embarks on a breathtaking musical adventure with Mozart’s complete piano sonatas in this captivating release by Sony Classical. As Fujita made his much-anticipated debut at the Verbier Festival in 2021, he fearlessly took on the monumental task of presenting five recitals solely dedicated to Mozart’s timeless compositions. Now, this remarkable journey finds its culmination in a studio recording that leaves listeners spellbound.

Throughout the album, Fujita’s unflappable mastery and profound understanding of Mozart’s language become apparent. The young pianist navigates the intricacies of each sonata with a seemingly effortless grace, delivering performances that exude nuance, expressiveness, and sheer joy in music-making.

In the C major K. 279, Fujita delights with his crisply delineated right-hand passagework, imbuing the Allegro with a sense of playfulness and exuberance. The B-flat K. 281 is equally enthralling, as the pianist effortlessly handles the ornamentation, infusing the music with delightful colors and nuances.

One of the highlights of the album is the D major “Dürnitz” sonata K. 284, particularly its extensive Theme and Variations. Fujita’s wide range of tempo changes creates a sense of unity and coherence, showcasing his interpretative brilliance. In the A minor K. 310, the pianist’s emotional depth shines through, as he skillfully balances dynamic unanimity in both hands, allowing the left-hand chords to provide a strong foundation for the dramatic first movement.

Fujita’s sensitivity to voice leading and controlled reserve in the C minor K. 457’s finale is commendable, compensating for a relatively lighter first movement. His rendition of the F major K. 332 surprises with a comfortable tempo that emphasizes the music’s rich melodic core, rather than flashy virtuosity, resulting in a refreshing and profound interpretation.

The album’s second half presents the F major K. 533/494 sonata, where Fujita’s playing evolves with a touch of emotional depth and a refined Rondo finale. The C major K. 330, B-flat K. 333, and D major K. 576 outer movements are performed with poise, control, and a measured approach, adding an intimate and introspective quality to these works.

Mao Fujita’s mastery over Mozart’s piano sonatas is awe-inspiring, and his interpretation stands strong among established reference versions. With a mesmerizing blend of technical prowess and artistic sensitivity, Fujita’s captivating journey into Mozart’s sonic universe is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast.

As we witness the blossoming of this young artist’s career, one cannot help but eagerly anticipate the future endeavors that will undoubtedly showcase more of Mao Fujita’s exceptional talent and artistry. This album is a testament to the musical brilliance of a rising star in the classical music world.