Great Romantics
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Apostolos Palios plays F.Chopin & R.Schumann
Frederic Chopin
Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23
Ballade No. 2 in F major, Op. 38
Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major, Op. 47
Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52
Grand Waltz in A-flat major, Op.42
Robert Schumann
Davidsbundlertanze
Total time: 76:06
______________________________________
MP3-320 and FLAC files included in purchase
Buy cd
Frederic Chopin
Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23
Ballade No. 2 in F major, Op. 38
Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major, Op. 47
Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52
Grand Waltz in A-flat major, Op.42
Robert Schumann
Davidsbundlertanze
Total time: 76:06
______________________________________
MP3-320 and FLAC files included in purchase
Buy cd
Buy tracks / Listen samples
F. Chopin / Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23 |
F. Chopin / Ballade No. 2 in F major, Op. 38 |
F. Chopin / Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major, Op. 47 |
F. Chopin / Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52 |
F. Chopin / Grand Waltz in A-flat major, Op.42 |
R. Schumann / Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6 |
Frederic Chopin: 4 Ballads and 1 Waltz
4 Ballads for piano
The French-Polisch composer and pianist (b. Warsaw 1810 - d. Paris 1849) wrote primarily for the solo piano, with the notable exception of some compositions for piano and orchestra, a trio for piano, violin and cello, a few for piano and cello duet and also some songs for voice and piano.
The four piano ballads were created between 1831 and 1842, during a difficult period in his personal life, as he was suffering from a lung disease. Apart from the fact that these are his most popular compositions, these ballads are highly technical masterpieces for piano, based mostly on melody. The structure of the musical phrases is such that they can be sung. These compositions, as with the composer's entire work, are prime examples of musical romanticism and reflect Chopin's personal style, away from the rigid, architectural barriers of the classical period, meandering into new melodical paths, exploiting on the one hand the endless potential of the instrument and on the other his own virtuosity and improvisational mastery.
The first Ballad (1831), written during his stay in Paris, is dedicated to “Monsieur le Baron de Stockhausen”, ambassador of the Hannover area (in Paris). Many years later, its popularity placed it (together with Andante spianato, also by Chopin) in Roman Polanski's famous film, "The Pianist" (2002). The second Ballad (1838-39) was dedicated to Robert Schumann, to repay the latter's dedication of "Kreisleriana, Opus 16" to Chopin. It is considered on of the toughest piano pieces of the Romantic period. Next is the third Ballad (1841), which is dedicated to “Mademoiselle Pauline de Noailles”. Finally, the fourth Ballad (1842), dedicated to “Madame la Baronne C. Nathaniel de Rothschild”, a lady of the Paris aristocracy and member of the famous international dynasty, who invited Chopin to play in her living room in order to make him widely known, is possibly the utmost example of the romantic genre.
These four great compositions do not have a rigid structure. They are based in part on various forms (waltz, sonata, variation etc) but are heavily dependant on free style improvisation. This is also apparent from the varying running times (ranging from 7 to 10 minutes), even by the same performers. These works have been extensively studied, not just as sheet music by performers, but also musicologically by music theorists.
Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42, no.5
Equally important compositions, Chopin's waltzes are piano pieces which in some cases can be performed by piano students, while in others may even trouble professional virtuosos. Chopin composed a total of 18 waltzes, from 1824 (aged just 14) until the end of his life (1849). They retain the typical waltz rhythm (3/4) but, unlike Vienese waltzes, were not meant for the ballroom, but for the concert hall. The "Great Waltz" also known as "The Two-Four Waltz" since its main melody seems to fit into a 2/4 rhythm despite the 3/4 accompaniment on the left hand, is the only waltz meant do be actually danced.
The piece begins with an introductory trill calling for the dance to begin, leading into the mesmerising, bright melody. The virtuosic passages and an enchanting coda make it a favourite for every audience. It is considered one of the composer's most important waltzes but is also a tough challenge for any pianist.
Robert Schumann: Davidsbündlertänze- 18 musical pieces (1837)
The great German composer Robert Schumann (b. Zwikau Sachsen, 1810 – d. Endenich Bonn, 1856) took his first artistic steps writing poetry and generally literature (his father had a bookshop and publishing house) even though he did in fact study music. He never gave up on the art of language, but soon focused on the art of sound, deeply moved by morbid events: the suicide of his mentally ill sister (he himself developed mental illness later in life), and the death of his father, who also suffered from some sort of psychiatric disease. He soon lost two more siblings to cholera. In these circumstances, he founded, in 1834, the "New Musical Newspaper" in which he made full use of his literary talent, writing various articles under different pseudonyms. A few years later (1837) he dreamt up a mythical band of "David Fans" (Davidsbündle), springing from his constant extistential clash with musical "Philistines". The original title was "Characteristic works for Florestan and Eusebius" based on the pseudonyms he had been using in his articles.
The consists of 18 parts - musical dialogues between his two alter egos, Florestan and Eusebius, which in tandem portray the impulsive but also lyrical side of this composer. In this cycle, and not suite as is often mentioned, Schumann experimented by modifying the essense of the musical genre of variation. He exploited this technical tool to create all those shades of musical adventure. The first bars of the composition were actually written by his wife, Clara Wieck, who played a vital part in not only his life, but also his music.
Apostolos Palios
Apostolos Palios has been described as “a marvelous pianist” (Cyprien Katsaris), “an extremely gifted, communicative and dedicated musician of great finesse, artistry and charismatic projection, who possesses excellent international potential” (Yonty Solomon).
Born in Greece (Carditsa), in 1979, Palios graduated from the Berlin Music Academy Hanns Eisler with Prof. Georg Sava and the Leipzig Music Academy Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy with Prof. Markus Tomas, where he received master- and soloist diploma with distinction. He also studied chamber music and conducting, as well as musicology at the University of Athens, where he got his PhD. He has received lessons from distinguished artists Aldo Ciccolini, Μurray Perahia, Cyprien Katsaris, Yonty Solomon, Roberto Szidon and George Hadjinikos.
He has won scholarships from the Costopoulos Foundation, from the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, from the Greek National Scholarships Foundation, from the State of Leipzig, and from the World in Harmony Foundation. He is the prizewinner of several National and International Piano, Chamber Music and Composition Competitions in Greece, Germany, Spain and Italy. He is also the scholarship winner of the 2006 Gina Bachauer Prize piano competition. He has received a special award from the Academy of Athens and has won the prestigious prizes "Best Greek Young Artist of the Year 2007" and "Best Recording by Greek Artist" from the Association of Greek Critics for Drama and Music.
He has performed at the most important concert halls in the world, like Berlin Philharmonic Hall, Vienna Konzerthaus, New York Carnegie Hall, Oslo Philharmonic Hall, Granada Auditorio de Falla Concert Hall, Athens Megaron Concert Hall. He is a frequent guest at many International Festivals in United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Austria, Turkey, Cyprus, Russia, Norway, Romania and Greece and has been presented on television, radio and music magazines. As a soloist he has appeared with all Greek orchestras and abroad (Berlin Symphony Orchestra, Orquesta Ciudad de Granada etc.). He has also recorded for Naxos Label and has given the first world performances of piano works. His exceptional artistic appearances were enthusiastic received by eminent music critics.
He has been a member of the well-known Aurora (Piano) Quartet of Germany and the ensemble for contemporary music Ergon Ensemble, as well as piano lecturer at the Music Science and Art Department of the Macedonia University in Thessaloniki and artistic director of Young Classical Series.
Webpage: www.apostolos-palios.com
4 Ballads for piano
The French-Polisch composer and pianist (b. Warsaw 1810 - d. Paris 1849) wrote primarily for the solo piano, with the notable exception of some compositions for piano and orchestra, a trio for piano, violin and cello, a few for piano and cello duet and also some songs for voice and piano.
The four piano ballads were created between 1831 and 1842, during a difficult period in his personal life, as he was suffering from a lung disease. Apart from the fact that these are his most popular compositions, these ballads are highly technical masterpieces for piano, based mostly on melody. The structure of the musical phrases is such that they can be sung. These compositions, as with the composer's entire work, are prime examples of musical romanticism and reflect Chopin's personal style, away from the rigid, architectural barriers of the classical period, meandering into new melodical paths, exploiting on the one hand the endless potential of the instrument and on the other his own virtuosity and improvisational mastery.
The first Ballad (1831), written during his stay in Paris, is dedicated to “Monsieur le Baron de Stockhausen”, ambassador of the Hannover area (in Paris). Many years later, its popularity placed it (together with Andante spianato, also by Chopin) in Roman Polanski's famous film, "The Pianist" (2002). The second Ballad (1838-39) was dedicated to Robert Schumann, to repay the latter's dedication of "Kreisleriana, Opus 16" to Chopin. It is considered on of the toughest piano pieces of the Romantic period. Next is the third Ballad (1841), which is dedicated to “Mademoiselle Pauline de Noailles”. Finally, the fourth Ballad (1842), dedicated to “Madame la Baronne C. Nathaniel de Rothschild”, a lady of the Paris aristocracy and member of the famous international dynasty, who invited Chopin to play in her living room in order to make him widely known, is possibly the utmost example of the romantic genre.
These four great compositions do not have a rigid structure. They are based in part on various forms (waltz, sonata, variation etc) but are heavily dependant on free style improvisation. This is also apparent from the varying running times (ranging from 7 to 10 minutes), even by the same performers. These works have been extensively studied, not just as sheet music by performers, but also musicologically by music theorists.
Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42, no.5
Equally important compositions, Chopin's waltzes are piano pieces which in some cases can be performed by piano students, while in others may even trouble professional virtuosos. Chopin composed a total of 18 waltzes, from 1824 (aged just 14) until the end of his life (1849). They retain the typical waltz rhythm (3/4) but, unlike Vienese waltzes, were not meant for the ballroom, but for the concert hall. The "Great Waltz" also known as "The Two-Four Waltz" since its main melody seems to fit into a 2/4 rhythm despite the 3/4 accompaniment on the left hand, is the only waltz meant do be actually danced.
The piece begins with an introductory trill calling for the dance to begin, leading into the mesmerising, bright melody. The virtuosic passages and an enchanting coda make it a favourite for every audience. It is considered one of the composer's most important waltzes but is also a tough challenge for any pianist.
Robert Schumann: Davidsbündlertänze- 18 musical pieces (1837)
The great German composer Robert Schumann (b. Zwikau Sachsen, 1810 – d. Endenich Bonn, 1856) took his first artistic steps writing poetry and generally literature (his father had a bookshop and publishing house) even though he did in fact study music. He never gave up on the art of language, but soon focused on the art of sound, deeply moved by morbid events: the suicide of his mentally ill sister (he himself developed mental illness later in life), and the death of his father, who also suffered from some sort of psychiatric disease. He soon lost two more siblings to cholera. In these circumstances, he founded, in 1834, the "New Musical Newspaper" in which he made full use of his literary talent, writing various articles under different pseudonyms. A few years later (1837) he dreamt up a mythical band of "David Fans" (Davidsbündle), springing from his constant extistential clash with musical "Philistines". The original title was "Characteristic works for Florestan and Eusebius" based on the pseudonyms he had been using in his articles.
The consists of 18 parts - musical dialogues between his two alter egos, Florestan and Eusebius, which in tandem portray the impulsive but also lyrical side of this composer. In this cycle, and not suite as is often mentioned, Schumann experimented by modifying the essense of the musical genre of variation. He exploited this technical tool to create all those shades of musical adventure. The first bars of the composition were actually written by his wife, Clara Wieck, who played a vital part in not only his life, but also his music.
Apostolos Palios
Apostolos Palios has been described as “a marvelous pianist” (Cyprien Katsaris), “an extremely gifted, communicative and dedicated musician of great finesse, artistry and charismatic projection, who possesses excellent international potential” (Yonty Solomon).
Born in Greece (Carditsa), in 1979, Palios graduated from the Berlin Music Academy Hanns Eisler with Prof. Georg Sava and the Leipzig Music Academy Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy with Prof. Markus Tomas, where he received master- and soloist diploma with distinction. He also studied chamber music and conducting, as well as musicology at the University of Athens, where he got his PhD. He has received lessons from distinguished artists Aldo Ciccolini, Μurray Perahia, Cyprien Katsaris, Yonty Solomon, Roberto Szidon and George Hadjinikos.
He has won scholarships from the Costopoulos Foundation, from the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, from the Greek National Scholarships Foundation, from the State of Leipzig, and from the World in Harmony Foundation. He is the prizewinner of several National and International Piano, Chamber Music and Composition Competitions in Greece, Germany, Spain and Italy. He is also the scholarship winner of the 2006 Gina Bachauer Prize piano competition. He has received a special award from the Academy of Athens and has won the prestigious prizes "Best Greek Young Artist of the Year 2007" and "Best Recording by Greek Artist" from the Association of Greek Critics for Drama and Music.
He has performed at the most important concert halls in the world, like Berlin Philharmonic Hall, Vienna Konzerthaus, New York Carnegie Hall, Oslo Philharmonic Hall, Granada Auditorio de Falla Concert Hall, Athens Megaron Concert Hall. He is a frequent guest at many International Festivals in United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Austria, Turkey, Cyprus, Russia, Norway, Romania and Greece and has been presented on television, radio and music magazines. As a soloist he has appeared with all Greek orchestras and abroad (Berlin Symphony Orchestra, Orquesta Ciudad de Granada etc.). He has also recorded for Naxos Label and has given the first world performances of piano works. His exceptional artistic appearances were enthusiastic received by eminent music critics.
He has been a member of the well-known Aurora (Piano) Quartet of Germany and the ensemble for contemporary music Ergon Ensemble, as well as piano lecturer at the Music Science and Art Department of the Macedonia University in Thessaloniki and artistic director of Young Classical Series.
Webpage: www.apostolos-palios.com