Teodor Doré - Rachmaninoff Variations

Crimean-Born Virtuoso Pianist And Composer Explores Historical Parallels Through Innovative Reworkings Of The Great Master

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Teodor for his wonderful initiatives in orchestrating and transcribing works by my grandfather, Sergei Rachmaninoff. His talented efforts contribute to showcasing the artistic legacy of the great composer and preserving the memory of his endearing personality. Huge bravo for the transcription Teodor created of the suite in D Minor – an incredible feat given how unlikely its discovery seemed!” - Alexandra Conus Rachmaninoff, great-granddaughter of Sergei Rachmaninoff

Teodor Doré is proud to present his new project entitled Rachmaninoff Variations, forthcoming on DAG Klassical in spring of 2025. As one of greatest composers of the late romantic period, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s fate was full of twists and turns associated with the loss of his homeland, forced emigration and challenges associated with the adoption of a new culture. The musician’s connection with his native country was so strong that post exile Rachmaninoff created only six pieces over the course of quater of a century.

The events unfolding since February 2022 have compelled a significant number of individuals, reminiscent of a century ago, to depart their homeland in pursuit of a new life. These profound and unsettling occurrences, drawing parallels with the wave of migration that Sergei Rachmaninoff himself experienced, inspired composer Teodor Doré to craft variations on Rachmaninoff’s compositions.

Doré has sought to envision how Rachmaninoff's music might be heard today so this album delves into historical parallels and explores the deep sense of tragedy associated with displacement from one's motherland and the loss of meanings and identity. For Teodor, the theme of migration and displacement is deeply personal. Having himself experienced the trauma of leaving his homeland, Doré understands all too well the emotional and psychological impact of exile. His first-hand experience of being uprooted and adapting to a new life in Barcelona, and later in London, provides a profound depth to his interpretation of Rachmaninoff’s works.

‘Variations’ are based on transcriptions of several preludes and romances for piano, violin, cello, academic vocals and Sufi traditional vocals. Migrant actors who are based in London, read parts from Rachmaninoff's diaries and letters of contemporary refugees and émigrés about the loss of homeland and meanings.

‘Having lost my homeland, I lost myself. The exile, who has lost his musical roots, traditions and native soil, has no desire to create, no other consolation remains, except for the unbreakable silence of undisturbed memories’ - Sergei Rachmaninoff

Recorded at London’s legendary Abbey Road Studios, Doré’s project has already captured the imagination of the international music community, with a forthcoming live performance at New York City’s prestigious Carnegie Hall scheduled for 29^th January 2025 as well as concert in London on March 21st at Holy Trinity Church Sloane Square.

Teodor Doré’s distinctive musical style is characterized by a seamless blend of virtuosic classical technique with modern elements. His deep understanding of classical tradition is enriched by his ability to incorporate subtle yet innovative textures and influences from other musical worlds, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. Rachmaninoff Variations stands as a testament to his ability to transform classical music into a living, breathing art form, while also offering a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of exile and loss. This remarkable project is poised to become a defining moment in Doré’s career and an important contribution to the ongoing dialogue around cultural displacement and identity.

Live Premiere At Carnegie Hall NYC, 29^thJanuary 2025:https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2025/01/29/Teodor-Dore-Piano-and-Guest-Artists-0730PM