Bracha Eden's 1968 album, "Brahms: Sonata for 2 Pianos; Saint-Saëns: Variations for Two Pianos on a Theme of Beethoven," is a captivating journey through the classical piano repertoire. This release, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, showcases Eden's virtuosity and deep understanding of these timeless compositions.
The album opens with Johannes Brahms' Sonata for 2 Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b, a work originally composed for piano quintet and later adapted for two pianos. The four-movement sonata is a testament to Brahms' mastery of structure and emotion, with Eden's interpretation bringing out the depth and nuance of each section.
The second half of the album features Camille Saint-Saëns' Variations for Two Pianos on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35. This piece is a brilliant display of technical skill and musicality, with each variation offering a unique perspective on Beethoven's original theme. Eden's performance is both precise and expressive, highlighting the complexity and beauty of Saint-Saëns' variations.
With a total duration of 53 minutes, this album is a substantial exploration of classical piano music. Bracha Eden's artistry shines through in every note, making this a memorable and enjoyable listening experience for classical music enthusiasts.
Sonata for 2 Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b: 1. Allegro non troppo (after Piano Quintet, Op. 34)Johannes Brahms, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Sonata for 2 Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b: 2. Andante, un poco adagio (after Piano Quintet, Op. 34)Johannes Brahms, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Sonata for 2 Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b: 3. Scherzo. Allegro (after Piano Quintet, Op. 34)Johannes Brahms, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Sonata for 2 Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b: 4. Finale. Poco sostenuto - Allegro non troppo (after Piano Quintet, Op. 34)Johannes Brahms, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 1. Moderato assaiCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 2. Tempo di MinuettoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 3. AllegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 4. Poco piu mossoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 5. Tempo del TemaCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 6. Molto allegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 7. Moderato assaiCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 8. Presto leggerissimoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 9. Alla marcia funebreCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 10. AllegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir
Variations on a Theme of Beethoven, Op. 35: 11. PrestoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bracha Eden, Alexander Tamir