Transcendental Etudes

Described by Kirill Gerstein as "one of the most towering mountain peaks of the piano literature", Liszt's Transcendental Etudes can be seen as a distillation of the mid-19th century romantic project, like sounding images of romanticism's nervous system, its otherworldly experiences, and its spirituality. For this new recording for myrios classics, Gerstein has looked to the word "transcendental" as the key to interpreting Liszt's monumental cycle. Going beyond the mere technical mastery required to play the pieces, Gerstein interprets the many ways in which Liszt goes beyond the usual through his depictions of the ghostly, visionary and the impressionistic. Gerstein also explores the relationship between the etudes in order to reveal the dramatic arc of the set when played in one go.
The multifaceted pianist Kirill Gerstein has rapidly ascended into classical music's highest ranks. With a masterful technique, discerning intelligence, and a musical curiosity that has led him to explore repertoire spanning centuries and styles, he has proven to be one of today's most intriguing and versatile musicians.