This is the first complete recording of the 24 Signs, Games and Messages by Hungarian composer György Kurtág. Signs, Games and Messages is a collection of very personal miniatures which Kurtág began writing almost 50 years ago, and which he continues to add to through the present day. Many have been written, dedicated or inspired by a particular person; they pass, sometimes impertinent, sad, serene, cheerful, joyful, thoughtful, or melancholic. This CD is completed by the first recordings of four other pieces for viola solo, composed in the Nineties between Budapest and Berlin. Violist Maurizio Barbetti is a perfect interpreter of these works. Winner of Darmstadt Preis and International Award Interpretation Iannis Xenakis in Paris, he performed as a soloist in major halls in the world. Important composers have written for him, among them Paul Mèfano, Ennio Morricone, Luis de Pablo and Horatiu Radulescu. Barbetti has recorded for the Col Legno and Stradivarius labels. Barbetti is joined by baritone Gianpiero Ruggeri, who sings on “Samuel Backett: le nain”. Liner notes by composer Nicola Sani.