Resilience

June 2023
Yulianna Avdeeva, the remarkable Russian pianist whose indomitable spirit has captivated audiences, unveils her latest musical journey, “Resilience,” in a breathtaking album released under the Pentatone label. Avdeeva’s prowess at the piano is showcased through an exquisite selection of works by Prokofiev, Shostakovich, Szpilman, and Weinberg, each composition reflecting her profound connection to the musical heritage of Eastern Europe.

Avdeeva’s resolute stance on current events, particularly her outspoken views on the war in Ukraine, adds a layer of poignant significance to her performance. As the winner of the prestigious Chopin Competition in 2010, Avdeeva’s affinity for Polish music is palpable, and it resonates throughout this remarkable collection.

The album commences with Władysław Szpilman’s hauntingly nostalgic 1942 Mazurka, a delicate and touching tribute to a bygone era. Avdeeva’s delicate touch and nuanced phrasing infuse the piece with emotion, capturing the essence of Szpilman’s reminiscences. The more avant-garde elements of Szpilman’s compositional language are boldly explored in his “Life of the Machines” suite from 1933. Avdeeva navigates through the intricate rhythmic patterns and shifting textures, revealing the evolution of musical language during a time of societal transformation.

Mieczysław Weinberg’s Piano Sonata No. 4 offers a profound contrast, with its introspective and consoling Adagio. Avdeeva’s interpretation delves deep into the emotional core of the piece, unraveling its intricate layers and poignant melodies. The Polish-born composer’s experiences and tribulations are eloquently conveyed through Avdeeva’s sensitive and empathetic touch.

A cornerstone of the album is Dmitri Shostakovich’s Piano Sonata No. 1, composed during a time of uncertainty as the young composer was carving his path in the world of music. Avdeeva captures the essence of Shostakovich’s inner turmoil, infusing the piece with both angst and hope, paying homage to the composer’s resilience and artistic vision.

The pinnacle of “Resilience” arrives with Sergei Prokofiev’s monumental Piano Sonata No. 8, the final and longest of his three “war sonatas.” Avdeeva’s interpretation demonstrates her masterful command of the piano’s tonal palette and structural intricacies. While her approach may differ from more aggressive interpretations, her deliberate restraint lends a refreshing perspective, allowing the work’s thematic complexity to unfold with clarity. The sonata culminates in an exhilarating finale that showcases Avdeeva’s technical brilliance and emotional depth.

 Yulianna Avdeeva’s  profound connection to the music and history of Eastern Europe is palpable, as she navigates through a diverse array of compositions with a keen musical intellect and unparalleled emotional depth. Avdeeva’s ability to capture the essence of each piece while infusing her personal narrative makes “Resilience” a truly captivating and introspective musical journey that will resonate deeply with listeners.