Brahms: Viola Sonatas Op.120 Nos.1/2 · Schumann: Märchenbilder - Tabea Zimmermann

This captivating album features the renowned violist Tabea Zimmermann, accompanied by pianist Hartmut Höll, in a stunning collection of chamber works by Johannes Brahms and Robert Schumann. Released in 1993 under the Warner Classics label, this recording showcases Zimmermann's exceptional artistry and profound musicality.

The album opens with Brahms' Viola Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1, a work of intense passion and lyricism. The sonata's four movements, ranging from the fiery "Allegro appassionato" to the playful "Allegretto grazioso," demonstrate Zimmermann's technical virtuosity and expressive depth. The album continues with Brahms' Viola Sonata No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 120 No. 2, offering a contrast with its more serene and introspective character.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Schumann's "Märchenbilder," Op. 113, a set of four evocative pieces inspired by fairy tales. These works highlight the delicate interplay between viola and piano, with Zimmermann and Höll delivering a performance that is both nuanced and captivating.

With a total duration of just over 52 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience. Zimmermann's exquisite tone and impeccable phrasing, combined with Höll's sensitive and supportive piano playing, make this recording a standout in the world of chamber music.

Tabea Zimmermann is a renowned German violist celebrated for her captivating performances on the international stage. With a career spanning both solo and chamber music, Zimmermann has collaborated with some of the world's most prestigious orchestras, including the Concertgebouw Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. Her artistry has inspired composers like György Ligeti to create works specifically for her, and she notably crafted her own version of Bartók's Viola Concerto from the composer's sketches. Zimmermann's dynamic range is evident in her diverse repertoire, from Romantic pieces to contemporary works, always delivered with a beautiful tone and lively musical intelligence. As the founder of the Arcanto Quartet, she has left an indelible mark on the chamber music scene, performing until 2016. Whether performing with pianists like Andrei Banciu or collaborating with orchestras, Zimmermann's dramatic intensity and outstanding quality of playing make her a standout in the classical music world.