It is undeniable that Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) counts amongst the most unconventional composers of the 20th century. Very few have known such remarkable evolution throughout their lives and have developed such a strongly marked musical identity. This CD’s contents are dedicated to two cycles that may be considered belonging to his first period, when Scriabin had the romantic idiom at heart.

The romantic frame of his first compositions led some to call Scriabin the “Russian Chopin”. Without the shadow of a doubt, Scriabin was a fervent admirer of F. Chopin. When composing his 12 Etudes, op.8 and his Preludes, op.11, the example provided by his precursor imposed himself to him. But Scriabin stood out from his predecessor, and gradually developed a unique style and atmosphere. Scriabin emerges – in these works more obviously than ever – as a prodigy with unprecedented expressivity, putting lyricism and profoundness at the centre of his works.

Matthieu Idmtal has become an established name on national and international stages. Press and public have witnessed his distinctive musical personality and have praised his highly sensitive interpretations. The majority of his training took place with Vitaly Samoshko, whom he regards as his most significant teacher. Three years ago, he formed a very successful duo with violinist Maya Levy. They recently won the Supernova Prize 2017.