Scriabins 5th Sonata Performed by Igor Zhukov
The 5th Sonata lies in between the tonal early Scriabin, and the atonal late Scriabin. This makes it unique amongst the other sonatas written by Scriabin. Concieved and documented in only six days, Scriabin didn't write this masterpiece with any consideration for the pianist who must perform this work. This is evident in the many quick jumps, large chords, and stupendious speeds. I have chosen to use the first edition of the score to showcase this amazing recording.
The recording that I'd like to show, is Igor Zhukov's amazing interpretation. Zhukov was born in Nizhny Novgorod in 1936, but his family moved to Moscow only one year later. After being evacuated from Moscow during the 2nd world war his family returned to Moscow, where he studied at the conservatory. He recieved education from Emil Gilels and later Heinrich Neuhaus. His interpretations of scriabins music are, in my opinion, as good as those of Horowitz and (almost as good as those of) Sofronitsky. He is sadly less known in the west, as he was not interested in excessive self promotion, and did not travel much.
This recording of the 5th sonata is my absolute favorite. The incredible clarity of this recording is not only due to Zhukov's incredible technique, but also partially his experience is an audio technician. But still, it is his unique pianistic style that allows his recording to ascend to the great heights at which it lies. The contrast he employs, both in dynamics and tempo, maintains the excitement of the piece. His immense power allows him to perfectly capture the supernatural mood of the climax. But he does not ruin the slow parts by hammering his way through them. In fact the slow parts are as appropiately played as the quick parts. He masterfully maintains the melodies whilst bringin out the chromatic inner lines beautifully.
I hope that others will enjoy this interpretation as much as i do myself.
21 июл 2022
