CCMusic.com

Aldo Ciccolini (1925-2015) launched his career in 1950 after winning the prestigious Marguerite Long Competition. A child prodigy, he dedicated himself to rigorous study, drawing influence from Busoni, Liszt, and the Bel Canto tradition, which shaped his emotionally charged interpretations-he described himself as a "lirico spinto pianist." His rich discography, largely released by Warner/Erato, includes complete piano cycles by Liszt, Saint-Saëns, and Séverac, along with acclaimed performances of Debussy and Satie. This enriched collection also features exclusive, previously unreleased recordings, including live recitals at the Nohant Festival and a studio session of his favorite Encore pieces. To experience Aldo Ciccolini through his extraordinary recorded legacy is to be immersed in a masterclass of elegance and humility, struck by the richness of his tone or captivated by the mysteries of an entrancing piano.