Antonio Ruiz-Pipo

Variaciones sobre un tema popular catalán

Throughout his life, Antonio Ruiz-Pipó (1934-1997) was a distinguished pianist who performed in recitals or as a soloist with orchestra in many of the major concert halls in Europe and America. He also recorded, first and foremost, works of many of his fellow countrymen, from Solér to Albéniz. His charming Variaciones sobre un tema gallego give proof of his profound knowledge of the piano, as do his sense of style and the deep attachment to his Spanish roots. The original theme from Galicia is followed by twelve short variations, each of them with a different character. Tone repetitions, after-striking octave and similar typical piano figurations are used next to a colouristic, yet modern and sharp harmony.