Alexander Peskanov is a Ukrainian composer, pedagogue, and powerhouse pianist. His 2004 recording of Scott Joplin for Naxos (Naxos 8.559114) is highly virtuosic, sometimes to excess, but is great fun to listen to. Some of Peskanov’s generous embellishments are reminiscent of John Arpin’s (e.g. in The Strenuous Life and Pine Apple Rag); others are 100% original. The D section of Elite Syncopations is accelerated and repeated a third time to dramatic effect. Most of the pieces feature sharp, clean staccatos, full of childlike spunk. Some selections (e.g. Bethena and Solace) are played with sublime slowness and introspection. I was moved by the touching lyricism of Pleasant Moments, until the jarring cascade of octaves at the end. Peskanov’s Maple Leaf Rag is very accurately played, orthodox embellishment-wise, and is one of my top-recommended recordings of the piece. My chief criticism of the album is with the CD liner notes written by Daniel Felsenfeld, which state that Fig Leaf and Country Club are “lesser pieces” (?). Listeners looking for Scott Joplin “off the beaten path” will want to consider this album, and should sample The Easy Winners and Heliotrope Bouquet therefrom.
Scott Joplin: Piano Rags
Alexander Peskanov
Naxos 8.559114
www.naxos.com
Brandon Byrne is a ragtime composer, performer, and scholar. Max Morath said of Byrne, “Brandon’s unique compositions display unparalleled gifts and hidden virtuosity. His music reflects the past and challenges the future. His playing will touch your soul.” For a full list of his compositions, please visit his website.
