Published monthly by a magazine in 1876 for amateur pianists to enjoy in the privacy of their own homes, Tchaikovsky’s The Seasons presents few technical challenges to a pianist such as Bruce Liu (himself the winner of the 2021 International Chopin Competition). But under the surface simplicity of these 12 vignettes, taking us through a Russian year month by month, lies some of the 19th-century composer’s most soulful moments. As anyone who has lived a northern European climate might understand, the mood throughout is mostly reflective. There is a melancholy heart, even, to hints of spring and summer (“March. Song of the Lark” and “April. Snowdrop”); and October’s yearning “Autumn Song” is less about seasons of mellow fruitfulness, more about bidding farewell to the light. Christmas’ waltz dances delicately, but with an eye on the plummeting temperatures. Tchaikovsky is at his best when indulging in some soul-searching, however, and these pieces are, without exception, wholly beautiful, even the lumbering majesty of September’s hunt. Liu is a wonderful guide, and brings character to each, and gives every note and phrase plenty of time to breathe. It’s all so clear and carefully shaped, but never at the expense of the music’s poetry. Inside the Album Booklet Jessica Duchen’s fine accompanying notes combine a guide to the music with engaging insights gleaned from an interview with Liu. Album booklets are available in the latest version of Apple Music Classical, which you can download and enjoy as part of your Apple Music subscription. To access booklets, tap on the book icon at the top of your screen.