This week on Classic 107, we’re turning the spotlight on one of Spain’s most iconic composers: Isaac Albéniz. Born May 29, 1860, Albéniz was a prodigious pianist and composer whose music captures the vivid colors, rhythms, and soul of Spain. To mark his birthday, we’re dedicating the 1 PM hour all week to his piano music, with a complete broadcast of his monumental suite "Iberia" and a performance of his Piano Concerto.
Join us each day at 1 PM as we immerse ourselves in Albéniz’s unique blend of impressionism, folk influence, and virtuosic flair:
Weekly Schedule on Classic 107 (1 PM Hour)
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Monday, May 26 – Iberia, Book I – performed by Alicia de Larrocha
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Tuesday, May 27 – Iberia, Book II – performed by Alicia de Larrocha
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Wednesday, May 28 – Iberia, Book III – performed by Alicia de Larrocha
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Thursday, May 29 – Iberia, Book IV – performed by Alicia de Larrocha
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Friday, May 30 – Piano Concerto in A minor, "Concerto fantástico" – performed by Martin Roscoe with the BBC Philharmonic, conducted by Juanjo Mena
About “Iberia” – Albéniz’s Masterwork for Piano
Composed between 1905 and 1909, "Iberia" is a suite of 12 pieces for solo piano, divided into four books. It is widely regarded as Albéniz’s greatest achievement and a pinnacle of Spanish piano literature. Each piece is a vivid musical portrait of a different region or aspect of Spanish life, drawing on flamenco rhythms, folk melodies, and impressionistic textures.
Book I (Monday)
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Evocación – A nostalgic and dreamy opening, evoking distant memories of Andalusia.
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El Puerto – A lively dance inspired by the port town of El Puerto de Santa María.
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Fête-Dieu à Séville – A grand and processional depiction of Corpus Christi celebrations in Seville.
Book II (Tuesday)
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Rondeña – Based on a traditional flamenco form from Ronda, filled with rhythmic drive and ornamentation.
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Almería – A melancholy and poetic tribute to the coastal city of Almería.
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Triana – A vibrant and colorful portrait of the Triana district of Seville, rich in flamenco culture.
Book III (Wednesday)
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El Albaicín – Named for the Moorish quarter of Granada, with exotic harmonies and intricate rhythms.
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El Polo – Based on the "polo," a passionate and intense flamenco song form.
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Lavapiés – A bustling depiction of the multicultural Madrid neighborhood, full of energy and flair.
Book IV (Thursday)
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Málaga – A gentle, lyrical piece inspired by the seaside town of Málaga.
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Jerez – Reflects the deep flamenco traditions of Jerez de la Frontera, with a soulful, brooding character.
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Eritaña – A festive finale named after a popular Sevillian inn known for its music and dance.
About the Piano Concerto – “Concerto fantástico” in A Minor (Friday)
Composed in 1886, Albéniz’s Piano Concerto in A minor, known as “Concerto fantástico,” Op. 78, shows a different side of the composer. While it predates the Iberia suite and leans more toward the Romantic traditions of Liszt and Schumann, it still hints at Albéniz’s Spanish voice.
Movements:
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Allegro ma non troppo – A bold and dramatic opening movement, full of romantic flourishes and virtuosic passages.
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Andante – A lyrical and introspective second movement with moments of delicate beauty and Iberian charm.
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Allegro – A lively, rhythmically energetic finale that brings the concerto to a spirited conclusion.
While less frequently performed than his solo piano works, the concerto provides insight into Albéniz’s development as both pianist and composer.
Join Us in Celebration
Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Spanish music or discovering Albéniz for the first time, this week offers a perfect chance to explore his remarkable legacy. Tune in at 1 PM each day on Classic 107 and travel across Spain through the masterful hands of Alicia de Larrocha and Martin Roscoe.
Let the music of Albéniz transport you to sunlit plazas, flamenco festivals, and the heart of Iberian spirit!