Dohnanyi: Suite in F Minor / Konzertstuck / Symphonic Minutes

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Ernst von Dohnányi's masterful piano compositions with this captivating album, released on July 15, 2014, by Hungaroton. Spanning a rich 70 minutes, this collection showcases Dohnányi's virtuosic command of the classical piano repertoire, offering a blend of chamber music and solo piano works that highlight his unique voice in the classical canon.

The album opens with the enchanting Suite in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 19, a four-movement suite that demonstrates Dohnányi's ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies. The suite's Andante con variazioni sets a contemplative tone, while the Scherzo and Romanza offer a delightful contrast with their lively rhythms and lyrical beauty. The Rondo concludes the suite with a sense of triumph and resolution.

Next, the Konzertstück, Op. 12, a three-movement work, showcases Dohnányi's prowess in concerto form. The Allegro non troppo begins with a sense of grandeur, while the Adagio provides a moment of introspection. The final movement, Tempo I, brings the work to a thrilling close.

The album culminates with the Szimfonikus percek (Symphonic Minutes), Op. 36, a five-movement suite that encapsulates Dohnányi's compositional genius. From the playful Capriccio to the lyrical Rapsodia, the whimsical Scherzo, the contemplative Tema con variazioni, and the triumphant Rondo, this suite is a testament to Dohnányi's ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

Born in 1877, Ernst von Dohnányi was a Hungarian composer, pianist, and conductor whose works span a wide range of genres, from solo piano pieces to orchestral works. His compositions are known for their technical brilliance, lyrical beauty, and innovative use of harmony and rhythm. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the classical music world.

Ernst von Dohnányi, born Ernő Dohnányi in 1877, was a multifaceted Hungarian musical genius, renowned for his prowess as a composer, pianist, and conductor. His career spanned the globe, with his international acclaim as a pianist beginning in 1898. Dohnányi's compositions, often published under the German form of his name, reflect his deep connection to Hungarian folk influences, as heard in works like his piano suite "Ruralia Hungarica." His notable works include the "Variations on a Nursery Song" for piano and orchestra and the dramatic "Stabat Mater." Dohnányi's life was marked by significant events, including his escape from Europe during World War II, which led him to settle in the United States. Beyond his musical talents, Dohnányi was also known for his pedagogical contributions and his interest in various inventions. His legacy, though sometimes overshadowed in the latter half of the 20th century, remains a testament to his enduring impact on classical music.