Franz Liszt - Tomoki Sakata plays Liszt

Information

Composer: Franz Liszt

1. Grandes études de Paganini, S. 141/R. 3b: No. 3 in G-Sharp Minor, "La campanella"
2. Piano Sonata in B Minor, S. 178/R. 21
3. Années de pèlerinage, Deuxième année: Italie, S. 161/R. 10: No. 5, "Sonetto 104 del Petrarca"
4. En rêve, Nocturne, S. 207/R. 87
5. Valse oubliée No. 1, S. 215/R. 37
6. Études d'exécution transcendante, S. 139/R. 2b: No. 5, "Feux follets"
7. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12 in C-Sharp Minor, S. 244/R. 106
8. Liebesträume No. 3 in A-Flat Major, S. 541/R. 211
9. Études d'exécution transcendante d'après Paganini, S. 140/R. 3a: No. 3 in A-Flat Minor, "La campanella"

Tomoki Sakata, piano

Date: 2026

Label: Sony Music Labels

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Pianist Tomoki Sakata, winner of the 2016 Franz Liszt International Piano Competition, presents a masterwork dedicated to the composer’s multifaceted repertoire. Recorded in mid-2026 at Karuizawa Ohga Hall, the album balances dazzling virtuosity with delicate lyricism, anchored by a compelling rendition of the monumental Piano Sonata in B minor. Featuring signature pieces such as "Liebestraum," "Feux Follets," "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12," and two distinct versions of "La Campanella," the release showcases Sakata's structural precision, rich tonal color, and deep musical insight. This exceptional recording offers classical enthusiasts a multidimensional, authoritative exploration of Liszt's enduring piano legacy.

Tomoki Sakata (born 1993) is an acclaimed pianist who gained international recognition after winning the 2016 Franz Liszt International Piano Competition, and he continues to captivate audiences with his formidable technique and expressive depth. His 2020 album Illusions explores the concept of evoking the sound world of an entire ensemble using only “10 fingers and a single piano,” presenting transcriptions and repertoire designed to suggest symphonic, operatic, and vocal textures. The programme includes highly challenging works such as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 and Symphony No. 6 (arranged by Feinberg), alongside Liszt’s Rigoletto Paraphrase and Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2, showcasing both virtuosic brilliance and structural clarity. Sakata’s interpretations highlight not only technical mastery but also a vivid, orchestral imagination, reinforcing his reputation as a compelling interpreter of expansive and concept-driven piano repertoire.

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