“Scriabin wished to combine all aesthetic experience in a single, mystical musical vision,” writes pianist Daniil Trifonov.
Described as a “poet, philosopher, musician, mystic, visionary and egotist,” Russian composer Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) pushed Romanticism to the breaking point. Experiencing a blending of senses known as synesthesia, he associated musical keys with colors.
Scriabin composed the solo piano Etudes, Op. 42 in 1903. The tempestuous Etude No. 5 in C-sharp minor has been described as “the center of gravity” for the set. It careens dangerously between ominousness, terror and anxiety, and soaring, ecstatic heroism. The score is inscribed with the interpretive marking, Affannato (“breathless” in Italian). The composer lauded it as “an Etude that surpasses the Third Symphony in power and grandeur.”
This performance, featuring Daniil Trifonov, took place in November of 2019 as part of Deutsche Grammophon’s Yellow Lounge series. “Informal yet intensely focused on the music,” the series, which began in 2001, takes place in German nightclubs.
Recordings
- Scriabin: Etude, Op. 42 No. 5, Daniil Trifonov Deutsche Grammophon
Wonderful exploration of this etude! As a concert pianist, I find
Scriabin fascinating and I have played this Etude myself many years ago.
It’s such an emotionally charged piece!
The Yellow Lounge concept is brilliant. Taking classical music into
nightclub settings strips away the formality and creates this raw,
intimate connection. Perfect setting for Trifonov’s intensity.
Just discovered your blog today. Looking forward to reading more!
I’m glad you are enjoying The Listeners’ Club, Michael!
Thank you, Timothy!