Vassilis Varvaresos V FOR VALSE

Who said waltz is frivolous?

For this recording dedicated to the genre, Vassilis Varvaresos has concocted a program that shatters prejudices. Far from 18th century ballroom dancing, the selected works are filled with sensuality, irony and strength.

It is the fatal side of this musical whirlwind which is highlighted: Liszt and his diabolical waltz; Schumann and his chiaroscuro emotion; the sad elegance of Tchaikovsky; Scriabin and his lush sensuality; Rosenthal‘s ecstatic freedom on Johann Strauss’s themes; and, on the ruins of the past, the poisonous darkness of Ravel‘s Valse.

This swirling invitation is an ideal playground for the expressiveness and brilliant virtuosity of the Greek pianist, graduated from Julliard School and CNSM Paris, winner of George Enescu International Piano Competition in 2014, and Piano Masters Competition in 2015.

Ophélie Gaillard RICHARD STRAUSS Don Quixote & Cello Works

From Romance to tone poem, the cellist Ophélie Gaillard invites to an imaginary journey, both heroic and delicate, in the post-Romantic world of Richard Strauss.

Heart of the disc, the symphonic poem Don Quixote transforms the instruments into characters who play the epic adventures of Cervantes’ hero. Thus, Don Quixote, played by the cello, talks with Sancho Panza (the viola) or Dulcinea (the violin) in a luxuriant orchestral fresco, tender and sensual, where Strauss’ genius for melody unfolds with a touch of humour. 

His exquisite expressiveness shines through the most intimate pieces that complete this program. Ophélie Gaillard’s warm lyricism agrees with the piano in the Romance and the Sonata in F major, or with the voice in the smooth accents of Morgen. As an ideal companion, the cellist’s enchanting bow leads to an irresistible music.