Anton Batagov - The Well-Meditated Clavier, Book 2

Information

Composer: Anton Batagov

1. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 10
2. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 11
3. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 12
4. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 13
5. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 14
6. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 15
7. The Well-Meditated Clavier: Formula 16

Anton Batagov, 

Date: 2026

Label: Melodiya

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Anton Batagov composed the piano cycle A Well-Meditated Clavier in 2020, with the first volume released in 2023. The work consists of a series of pieces titled “Formulas,” each based on traditional compositional techniques such as chaconne, passacaglia, canon, counterpoint, and rondo. Rather than presenting a predetermined concept, the cycle treats the sounds of the piano themselves as objects of meditation, exploring numerous variations within simple melodic and harmonic patterns. Batagov contrasts this approach with modernist ideas of constant novelty, favoring the older tradition of shared forms and quiet craftsmanship. The first volume was recorded on a 1909 Steinway piano, while the second volume, containing additional formulas, was recorded on an 1880 Steinway.

Anton Batagov (born 10 October 1965) is a Russian pianist and post-minimalist composer widely regarded as an influential figure in contemporary classical music. With a discography of more than 60 albums, he has performed at major international venues and festivals. Batagov is a close collaborator and prominent interpreter of Philip Glass’s music, touring with him for nearly a decade and recording acclaimed albums including The Complete Etudes and arrangements from Einstein on the Beach and Koyaanisqatsi. As a composer, his distinctive style blends post-minimalism with influences from Russian church bell traditions, Buddhist philosophy, early Soviet avant-garde, and progressive rock. After focusing on recording and composition from 1997 to 2009, he resumed international solo performances featuring both contemporary and historical repertoire.

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