Album insights
This program presents a diverse collection of Godowsky's artistry, comprising two original compositions, including one of immense challenge and another of poetic simplicity. Additionally, it features five transcriptions of Schubert's works, showcasing Godowsky's genius in this domain. The program also includes unique arrangements of "Invitation to the Dance" and themes from "Artists' Life," labeled by Godowsky himself as "contrapuntal paraphrases." The Passacaglia, a tribute to Schubert completed in October 1927, marked Godowsky's final extensive composition, providing him with renewed vigor and a glimpse into eternity.
Notably, Abram Chasins recounts a memorable evening at Godowsky's New York apartment, where luminaries like Josef Hofmann marveled at Godowsky's magical rendition of his works. Despite the daunting nature of Godowsky's pieces, virtuosos like Simon Barere and Wladimir Horowitz were drawn to them. "Alt Wien," Godowsky's renowned composition, is often heard in Jascha Heifetz's violin arrangement and was featured in the film "Grand Hotel." Furthermore, Godowsky's meticulous transcriptions of Schubert's songs and compositions, completed in various locations, are emblematic of his compositional prowess and dedication.
The program also encompasses Godowsky's adaptations of Schubert's works, predating his song transcriptions. Noteworthy among these is the complex and engaging piece inspired by Weber and Johann Strauss II. Despite the technical challenges posed by these compositions, they offer a fulfilling experience for both performer and audience alike. Godowsky's symphonic metamorphoses of Johann Strauss themes and other playful paraphrases reflect his musical mastery beyond mere virtuosity. He strived to transform Strauss's music into vibrant, multifaceted pieces through innovative harmonic and contrapuntal techniques, a feat lauded by contemporaries like Josef Hofmann for its symphonic quality and vivacity.