Inspired by the richness of Eastern folk music, Mily Balakirev composed the oriental fantasy Islamey
in 1869. Based on themes from Armenia and the Caucasus region, this
scintillating work is known worldwide as a supreme example of virtuoso
piano writing at its best.
Other favorite Russian piano works
featured in this exceptional compilation include music by Arensky,
Borodin, Glinka, Rimsky-Korsakov, and other masters. Among them are such
all-time favorites as Rubinstein's lovely "Melody in F," Prokofiev's
blazing Toccata, Scriabin's famous Nocturne for Left Hand Alone, Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C Sharp Minor, Stravinsky's "Piano-Rag-music," and many more.
Aimed
at intermediate- to advanced-level pianists, this handsome volume
features an introduction by internationally acclaimed pianist Joseph
Banowetz, a specialist in Russian piano music.