Lara Downes: Exiles' Cafe
Steinway & Sons 30016
Bartók: Folksongs from the Csík District (4:12)
Chopin: Mazurka in F-sharp minor, Op 6/1 (3:31)
Prokofiev: Pastoral Sonatina in C major, Op 59/3 (4:58)
Martinů: Dumka #2, Contemplation (2:25); Dumka #3 (1:40)
Lara Downes, piano
This new compilation is an exploration of musical miniatures created by composers who were prevented from returning to their homeland but found inspiration in their adopted homes. Pianist Lara Downes is known for her fusing of pianistic sensitivity and thought-provoking concepts. Her latest album was inspired after hearing the piece “Tango from the Exiles’ Café,” and she created a fascinating narrative around it, which Downes describes as “both real and metaphorical.”
Lara Downes: Exiles' Cafe,
