Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Spanish composer-pianist Enrique Granados whose evocations of Spain helped create a new musical identity for his country.

Enrique Granados lived in interesting times. He was able to enjoy the friendship of brilliant contemporary colleagues such as the cellist Pablo Casals and pianist Ricardo Viñes, and he witnessed a cultural and physical renaissance of his home city of Barcelona. But the infrastructure of music-making was still flimsy, and Granados often struggled to make ends meet for his family. His career encompassed teaching, playing and composing, and much travel across Spain in search of opportunities. One such trip to Madrid in 1894 yielded one of Granados's greatest successes - his Piano Trio - and today Donald Macleod's narrative includes a rare opportunity to hear it.

Intermezzo (Goyescas)
Philharmonia Orchestra,
Herbert von Karajan, conductor

Prelude to Maria del Carmen
Enrique Granados, piano

Madrigal for cello and piano
Piano Trio Salzburg

Miel de la Alcarria
Douglas Riva, piano

Piano Trio
LOM Piano Trio

La maja de Goya
Julian Bream, guitar. Show less