In this captivating collaboration, two virtuosos, pianist Sir András Schiff and composer/clarinettist Jörg Widmann, unite for the first time on record to present a mesmerizing blend of Brahms' late masterpieces and Widmann's evocative compositions. Released on October 2, 2020, under the ECM New Series label, this album offers a rich tapestry of classical music that spans a little over an hour.
The album opens with Johannes Brahms' Clarinet Sonata No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 120 No. 2, showcasing the exquisite interplay between Schiff's nuanced pianism and Widmann's expressive clarinet playing. The sonata's three movements, from the tender "Allegro amabile" to the fiery "Allegro appassionato" and the playful "Andante con moto – Allegro," demonstrate the duo's mastery of Brahms' intricate compositions.
Following the sonata, the album delves into Jörg Widmann's "Intermezzi for Piano," a set of five pieces commissioned by András Schiff for the Salzburg Festival in 2010. Composed specifically to complement Schiff's style, these intermezzi offer a contemporary counterpoint to Brahms' 19th-century works. The pieces range from the hauntingly beautiful "Zart singend" to the intense "Mit dunkler Glut. Agitato sempre" and the serene "Wiegenlied. Ruhig fließend," showcasing Widmann's versatility and Schiff's ability to bring out the emotional depth of each composition.
The album concludes with Brahms' Clarinet Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1, a work that further highlights the chemistry between Schiff and Widmann. The sonata's four movements, from the passionate "Allegro appassionato" to the graceful "Allegretto grazioso" and the lively "Vivace," provide a fitting finale to this remarkable collaboration.
This album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Brahms' music and the innovative spirit of Jörg Widmann's compositions. With András Schiff and Jörg Widmann at the helm, this recording is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Vinylscout