Alfredo Casella was an influential Italian composer, pianist, and conductor, a pivotal figure in the early 20th century classical music scene. Born in Turin on July 25, 1883, Casella was immersed in music from an early age; he entered the Conservatoire de Paris in 1896 to study piano under Louis Diémer and composition with Gabriel Fauré. Throughout his prolific career, Casella balanced his love of traditional, classical forms with an interest in the modernist movement, bridging the Romantic era with the emerging contemporary sounds of his time.

His output was diverse, ranging from piano pieces to large-scale orchestral works. The "Toccata, Op. 6," "11 Pezzi Infantili, Op. 35," and "Studi, Op. 70" showcase his virtuosic and colourful piano writing, capturing both the innocence of childhood and the technical demands of advanced studies. Orchestral works like the "Sinfonia, arioso e toccata, Op. 59" and his "Symphony No. 2" are testaments to his robust, romantic yet modernist language, while chamber pieces such as "Serenata per piccola orchestra, Op. 46 bis" and the "Concerto per violoncello e orchestra, Op. 58" display his versatility and depth of expression. Casella was also a key figure in revitalizing Italian chamber music and had a significant impact as an educator, notably at the Conservatory of Santa Cecilia in Rome. His death on March 5, 1947, marked the end of an era, but his works continue to be celebrated for their innovative spirit and vibrant character.

Genres

Early Modern Classical

Neoclassicism

Latest Release

Alfredo Casella: Toccata, Op. 6 - 11. Pezzi infantili, Op. 35 - 6. Studi, Op. 70

Alfredo Casella

Album - 18 Tracks - Released December 16, 2023