Somnia is an album which pianist Denis Kozhukhin dedicates in memory of his parents. It is very special and deeply personal to him.

It brings together the innocence of Tchaikovsky’s Children’s Album, the playful yet technically demanding Music for Children by Prokofiev, and Alexey Shor’s emotionally rich Piano Sonata No. 2. Tchaikovsky’s pieces evoke childhood wonder and the fragility of life, while Prokofiev’s “easy” works cleverly disguise technical challenges with mischievous charm. Shor’s Sonata, filled with bold contrasts and introspective melodies, takes the listener on a journey of emotional discovery and resilience.

Together, these works transcend their individual stories to offer a profound exploration of human experience – from the simplicity of childhood to the complexities of adulthood – all brought to life with Kozhukhin’s masterful artistry.

Denis Kozhukhin, Piano