Iwona Karasinska-Schlair - Melodies (2016/2020) Hi-Res

Melodies are omnipresent. We have heard them everywhere since our early childhood. They are lifelong companions as folk songs and lullabies. It is also true for composers that the melody always means the start of a piece of music. The melody – whether short or long, cheerful or sad, fast or slow, it constantly develops – according to the composer ́s temper - to a great piece or it remains quite small resting in itself. These little pieces - called “Miniatures”- are the ones that inspired me to create this album.

The “Miniature” is so fascinating, charming and graceful that nearly every composer has written one. This is how such works, which simply reflect a strong desire for beautiful melodies, were created among symphonies and operas, sonatas and concerts. They might serve as little breaks to regain the power to create something extraordinary or they are just dreams, a radiant smile, a short and deep feeling. Sometimes it is a journey to virgin soil – with undiscovered moods and voices. Very often, however, it is simply an encounter with music, which shows us its unexpected beauty. My selection of the program was spontaneous and influenced by my great desire for beautiful melodies, which were written by various composers from different eras and which I could play on different instruments. I chose pieces which are partly well known and some which are played rarely, above all the ones whose marvelous melody make up its charm and magic. This should be symbolized by the title of the album ”Melodies”.

Iwona Karasińska-Schlair, piano