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Charles-Valentin Alkan was a 19th-century French composer and pianist known for his virtuosic piano works. His "Recueil d'Impromptus, Op.32" is a collection of impromptus, which are pieces characterized by their improvisational and spontaneous character. Here are some interesting facts about Charles-Valentin Alkan and this specific composition:

1. Prolific Virtuoso: Alkan was considered one of the great virtuosos of his time. He was a friend and contemporary of Franz Liszt and Frédéric Chopin, both renowned pianists, and composers. Alkan's technical prowess on the piano is evident in many of his compositions, including the impromptus in Op.32.

2. Obscurity and Rediscovery: Alkan's works fell into relative obscurity after his death in 1888. However, in the latter half of the 20th century, there was a renewed interest in his compositions, and musicians and scholars began to explore and rediscover his music, bringing it back into the concert repertoire.

3. Challenging Technical Demands: The impromptus in Op.32 are known for their challenging technical demands on the pianist. Alkan's compositions often feature complex and intricate passages, requiring exceptional skill and dexterity. This level of difficulty contributed to the neglect of his works for many years, as performers found them daunting.

4. Innovative Harmonies and Structures: Alkan was known for his innovative