|
I chose Vincent van Gogh's 'The Starry Night' for the cover because I felt, that in its own way, the painting conveyed the wide spectrum of emotions found in the music I chose for the CD. Everything from the thundering intensity of Liszt's 'Faust Waltzes' and Gottschalk's 'Union', to the more peaceful qualities of Debussy's 'Clair de lune' and Ravel's 'Pavane for a Dead Princess' seems as dramatically and magically captured in this painting by van Gogh. Even the jazz-influenced 'Three Preludes' of Gershwin are somehow reflected in van Gogh's crackling and seemingly improvised starry sky. I also felt van Gogh would approve of his painting gracing the cover of a CD titled 'Passionately Unstuffed', because being pompous or pretentious was a quality he couldn't tolerate in people. His own words were quite blunt and to the point: "I can't stand stuffy people!" Amen. Christopher Finkelmeyer "Christopher Finkelmeyer has clearly intended this album for the classical neophyte crowd, but any such concept album should also succeed with the more seasoned crowd if it's worth its salt, and I predict Finkelmeyer can score high points..." FANFARE MAGAZINE
| Passionately UnStuffed This is not your typical Classical CD. But then again Finkelmeyer is not your typical concert pianist! "I wanted to bring the flavor of my live performances to this CD," says Finkelmeyer. And so he has. From first-time Classical music listeners to hard-core pianophiles there is something for everyone on this new release - Passionately UnStuffed. Beginning with the finger-twisting virtuosity of Liszt's Faust Waltzes to the sublime beauty of Debussy's Clair de lune; from the jazz-influenced Three Preludes by Gershwin to the seldom heard Leschetizky Romance - this collection, performed by the musician who has been hailed a "pianist of both technical and emotional power," is sure to find its way into the hearts of many. Finkelmeyer's "unstuffed" personality shines thoughout the 20-page booklet that accompanies the CD. The booklet offers readers a chance to get to know the composers in new and refreshing ways. Even though the biographical sketches are not what you may have read in music class - these light-hearted, humorous, and at times touching vignettes will most definitely open eyes (and ears) with their engaging and amusing look at the great composers' lives.
The booklet is chock-full of photos and images helping to bring to life even more vividly these composers and their music. The unique packaging of this CD is certain to further Finkelmeyer's mission to open the door, and offer all people a chance to experience the wonderful world of Classical music! | ||||||
