Born into a musical family in St Petersburg in 1972, Arcadi Volodos explored conducting and singing before committing to the piano at age 15. Following studies in Moscow, Paris and Madrid, he began his performing career, appearing as a soloist with the world’s best orchestras and giving recitals at the most celebrated venues. His recorded catalogue spans live and studio work and surveys a diverse collection of styles. Volodos’ championship of the Catalan composer Federico Mompou is one such example of his fresh and individual approach. Mompou left a small but significant body of work, invariably miniature compositions of quietness and delicacy. Volodos’ commitment to highlighting such regrettably little-known piano music has been lauded. Indeed, this album won critical acclaim and a Gramophone Award in the wake of its 2013 release.