Drawn from different parts of Tcherepnin’s life, the Entretiens display distinct cinematic qualities. With their exhaustive range of expression, the Twelve Preludes vividly demonstrate the multi-faceted genius of their composer. The Romances contrast tenderness and warmth with unsettling moods, and the Five Concert Etudes show an infatuation with all things Chinese.

Giorgio Koukl is a pianist/harpsichordist and composer based in Lugano, Switzerland. Born in Prague, he studied at the State Music School and Conservatoire before moving to Switzerland and continuing his studies at the Conservatoires of Zürich and Milan. Koukl’s complete recordings of Martinů’s piano music for Naxos have been critically acclaimed as “a delight” (Gramophone) and “estimable and important” (MusicWeb International). Tcherepnin belonged to the same Parisian group of composers as Martinů, and Koukl’s effortless technique and expertise with this fascinating repertoire make him a perfect advocate for this composer’s remarkable music.

World Première Recording of 4 Romances, Op.31.

“Koukl proves himself a most sympathetic advocate for Tcherepnin’s music. [...] The sound...is top-notch.” – International Piano (Vol.2)