Chopin Orbit (LP)

For this new recording, Hayato Sumino has turned his gaze on the composer who possibly means the most to him, namely Chopin (1810-1849). It was indeed Sumino's sensational performances during the 2021 International Chopin Competition where he was a semi-finalist that first brought this fine young musician to wider international attention.

Hayato Sumino explains his concept for 'Chopin Orbit':- "For me, Chopin has always been like an idol, and his music has remained close to my heart since childhood. As I grew as a musician, I began to realize how naturally his influence found its way into my own creations. At some point I thought-why not create an album with Chopin at its center? That moment became the starting point of this project. My pieces were born out of inspiration from Chopin's works. Sometimes I quote a motif or weave in a melody, but I never set out simply to write "in the style of Chopin." What I wanted was to bring together his spirit with my own modern sensibility and creativity.

The album includes, among others, Chopin's Polonaise-Fantasie op. 61, Nocturne in c-sharp minor, Berceuse and Raindrop Prelude, coupled with Hayato's own pieces White Keys and Post Rain, Godowsky's transcription of Chopin's Waltz No. 1 and Janacek's Good Night! from On an Overgrown Path.

Echoing this imaginative framework, Chopin Orbit showcases Sumino's distinctive musical style, merging his refined classical sensibilities with his discerning ear as an arranger and his instinctive feel for the new. During his exquisite performances of his carefully curated programme for the album, Sumino adeptly utilises a variety of keyboards, including a concert grand, a vintage piano, a modern upright and celeste.