Notes
Do you see your future? Do you see the light at the end of your tunnel? Chopin's masterpiece, calling forth life dramatic 'last curtain.' The dramatic '24th suite,' the masterwork of Chopin, not to be restrained by the formalities of the word 'prelude.' All 24 songs contain both posthumous works and famous works which, beginning with 'Raindrop Prelude' remain in the hearts of many Japanese people to this day. Bringing the pivot to Japan, this first CD is the one fans have been waiting for, where she further extends her dynamic performances. Well, this CD was the fourth release for this label, but it is actually the first CD that the label planned. The CD's artist, Akiko Inao, was the very first artist selected by the public. My first encounter with this artist dates back to around three years ago, in the autumn of 2009. Just about a month had passed since the public appeal for votes had begun. At this time, she did not yet have the proof of her abilities and achievements as she does now as an acoustic firm, and there was even a period when she did not gather as many votes as one might think. However, I still vividly remember the recording that she sent me during such a period, played with such a power, it was like fire would come out of your eyes. Everyone involved in the selection process was surprised by her breathtaking dynamism and elegant sound, and were truly delighted to have discovered such an artist. The 26 piece complete collection of preludes, which includes posthumous recordings, was created while Chopin was under medical care and enduring extreme mental and physical adversity, during one of the most difficult times of his life. Although it is presented as a collection of preludes, if you look past that and listen to it, it is also a suite, and feels like one song split into 24 sections. This music has a melody that is familiar to many Japanese, and is a masterpiece of Chopin that is loved by Japanese even today. It is truly very moving to have that song played and recorded by the artist that was selected first. I am deeply moved to have been able to share a masterpiece of Chopin that Japan has loved so dearly with the rest of the world. Toshiyuki Suzuki. (DPIC Entertainment. General Producer. )
