Qobuzissime

Our Qobuzissime award is designed to bring attention to an album that breathes fresh life into the music world. It is a rare case to have such a young musician add something new to the centuries-old conversation around classical music, yet 27-year-old Julius Asal has done just that on his sophomore album Scriabin - Scarlatti.

Two centuries lie between the two composers Domenico Scarlatti and Alexander Scriabin. Two lives and eras that could probably not be more different. Scarlatti was born in Naples at the end of the 17th century and was already one of the most important representatives of his genre during his lifetime. Scriabin grew up in Moscow around 1900, where his music reflected not just Russian modernism but also significant spiritual and philosophical influences. Although at first glance the two composers seem far apart in terms of style and time, Julius Asal would lead us to believe that musically, the two are intertwined.

At the age of 27, the young pianist showcases a musical and philosophical depth that is uncommon in today’s landscape. Beyond his exceptional technical skills and remarkable musical expression, it’s his profound artistic insight that sets Julius Asal apart from his contemporaries and has rightfully garnered him a contract with Deutsche Grammophon. His dedication to concert and album programming is central to his success, and this project is no exception. ”You have the chance to create a new context and new perspectives for a work that has already been played for centuries,” explains Asal, “so these works can appear in a new light without losing their own character.”

At the heart of the album lies Scriabin’s monumental Piano Sonata No. 1 Op. 6 in F minor, an early work by the composer that already hints at the richness and maturity characteristic of his later compositions. Asal complements this centerpiece with additional pieces by Scriabin, including selections from the 24 Préludes, Op. 11, and the 12 Études, Op. 8. Furthermore, six keyboard sonatas by Scarlatti are featured, each interpreted with authentic playing that captures the essence of both periods. However, the unofficial highlight undoubtedly rests on Asal’s two original compositions, TRANSITION I & II, which seamlessly blend with the rest of the program, accentuating the album’s unique and personal character. A masterly achievement for the young pianist and a Qobuzissime for us!