Kristina Marinova | Loves Me Not Review
Kristina Marinova’s Loves Me Not: A Musical Journey Spanning Three Centuries
by Illiam Sebitz
With a vibrant energy and a youthful radiance, virtuoso pianist Kristina Marinova has once again dazzled the classical world with her latest album, Loves Me Not. The album is a carefully curated selection of melancholic classical piano pieces that span three centuries, from Bach to Rachmaninoff, bound together by a common theme of emotional deliverance and resilience.
With a relaxed and flowing tempo that invites the listener into the musical journey, Marinova’s rendition of Rachmaninoff’s “Elegie, Op. 3 No. 1” is a standout, characterized by lyrical phrasing and subtle dynamics that build to create an atmosphere of drama and release. Her masterful control over the keys allows for a fluid technique, enabling her to express the melody while maintaining a supportive accompaniment. Each repeat of the theme becomes increasingly complex, showcasing Marinova’s ability to bring out the B section’s playful nature while preserving the A section’s nostalgic hues. Her interpretation of the piece is emotional, taking the listener through a melancholic, yet hopeful journey, carried by her expressive dynamics, tempo, and shaping of the melody.
The album’s conclusion, Francisco Tarrega’s “Recuerdos de la Alhambra,” is equally impressive. Marinova’s rendition of this technically demanding piece is a tribute to her virtuosity. She embraces the challenge with passion and control, emphasizing the tremolo part of the melody and creating an exciting contrast to the more conventional emphasis on arpeggios, which most guitarists do. As the piece develops, she flawlessly shifts her focus to the arpeggio melody, demonstrating mastery over the wide range of registers required by the work. Her performance is tranquil and hypnotic, with expressive dynamics highlighting the piece’s inherent beauty. The flawless execution of the cadential figure, where all the parts sing clearly and evenly, is a testament to Marinova’s technical skill.
Loves Me Not is a testament to Marinova’s ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level. The album takes listeners on a journey of melancholy and hope, skillfully presented through her expressive performances. Each piece, from the opening “Elegie” to the closing “Recuerdos de la Alhambra,” offers a glimpse into Marinova’s extensive range as a pianist, allowing the listeners to find the wealthiest worlds of timbre and colors. The album documents and demonstrates her remarkable talent and unyielding dedication to the art of classical piano music.
From her beginnings at the National Academy of Music and Dance for Gifted Children, through her tenure at the University of Michigan and the University of Southern California, to her current role as a music educator, Marinova has remained committed to her craft. Her performances, full of grace and style, reflect her personal belief that music, imbued with sadness, can have therapeutic benefits and help lead the way out of the darkness.
Loves Me Not is an album that invites the listener to explore the therapeutic power of music and find hope in moments of despair, a testimony to Marinova’s belief in the healing power of music and her ability to share that belief with her audience. All of this makes Loves Me Not an album that will resonate with listeners for years to come.
Loves Me Not
Release Date: June 23, 2023
Label: Navona Records
About the author

Illiam Sebitz
Born and raised in a picturesque European village, my fondness for music began during my formative years, when the charismatic tones of the recorder first filled the halls of my primary school. This early fascination escalated into my lifelong pursuit of embracing the melodious charm of the flute; I have even spent time refining my skills at a music conservatoire. As a seasoned music connoisseur, I find myself captivated by the multifaceted world of music. I enjoy writing music reviews to better enable me to explore genres as diverse as world, rock, jazz, classical, folk, and film music, each offering a unique auditory journey that enriches my life and intellect.
In my spare moments, you'll likely find me meticulously crafting my latest woodworking project, sharpening my skills with flute etudes, or inventing tales of fantasy through the art of creative writing. My eclectic interests and expertise harmonize to create a symphony of passion and curiosity that resonates within every aspect of my life as a music enthusiast.
Be the first to comment on "Kristina Marinova | Loves Me Not Review"