Nikolai Lugansky
Nikolai Lugansky’s New Schumann Recording is Out Now
From the Fantasie Op. 17 — a pinnacle of lyricism and virtuosity — to the irresistible Carnival Scenes from Vienna, via the Humoreske that bubbles over with invention, Nikolai Lugansky explores three of Schumann’s iconic masterpieces for piano in his new recording with Harmonia Mundi. The recording is a compelling panorama of an intensely personal musical world, mingling passionate outbursts with ironic daydreams and poetic depths. Described by Gramophone as “the most trailblazing and meteoric performer of all” Nikolai Lugansky is a pianist of extraordinary depth and versatility.
” 4 stars – Lugansky’s qualities are immediately apparent in the Fantasy: pianistic mastery, tonal nobility and remarkable transparency, even in eruptive passages…Rather than acting as a sensitive sounding board for inner conflicts, Lugansky creates grand arcs, clear structures and controlled emotions – a plea for Schumann as a classical master in the tradition of Beethoven.”
RONDO
“‘Absolutely fantastic and passionate’ – this is how Robert Schumann wanted the beginning of his Fantasy Op. 17 to sound. Nikolai Lugansky takes the composer’s wishes as his command. But his playing does not sound overbearing. Lugansky knows how to take risks. He therefore focuses above all on clarity. The main and secondary voices should always remain clearly recognisable. Lugansky guides us carefully through the ravines and clearings of Schumann’s Fantasy; he does not lose himself in artificial effects, but rather helps us to understand the essential colours and lines of this music…Nikolai Lugansky has selected three works by Robert Schumann for his new album. His piano playing offers no extremes, spectacle or exuberance. Rather, it moves within precisely explored boundaries. Lugansky concentrates on colours and forms. His performance remains vivid and balanced at all times. No more, but also never less.”
NDR