Various Composers - Somnia (Denis Kozhukhin)

Information

• Sergei Prokofiev - Music for Children, Op. 65
• Alexey Shor - Piano Sonata No. 2
• Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - Children's Album, Op. 39

Denis Kozhukhin, piano

Date: 2025

Label: Pentatone

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This album brings together the innocence of Tchaikovsky’s Children’s Album, the playful yet technically demanding Music for Children by Prokofiev, and Alexey Shor’s emotionally rich Piano Sonata No. 2. Tchaikovsky’s pieces evoke childhood wonder and the fragility of life, while Prokofiev’s “easy” works cleverly disguise technical challenges with mischievous charm. Shor’s Sonata, filled with bold contrasts and introspective melodies, takes the listener on a journey of emotional discovery and resilience. Together, these works transcend their individual stories to offer a profound exploration of human experience – from the simplicity of childhood to the complexities of adulthood – all brought to life with Kozhukhin’s masterful artistry.

Denis Kozhukhin, winner of the 2010 Queen Elisabeth Competition, is recognized as one of the leading pianists of his generation. He has performed with top orchestras including the Chicago Symphony, Royal Concertgebouw, and Staatskapelle Berlin, and at major festivals such as Verbier and the BBC Proms. Recent seasons featured collaborations with European orchestras, recital appearances in top venues, and a residency with the Barcelona Symphony. In 2023/24, he celebrates composers Ligeti, Schönberg, and Lutoslawski. A Pentatone artist, his acclaimed recordings span works by Franck, Haydn, and Gershwin. Kozhukhin trained in Madrid, Lake Como, and Stuttgart under renowned teachers.

High Resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz