Eugen d'Albert: Solo Piano Music

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Eugen d'Albert's solo piano music with this exquisite collection released by Hyperion in 1997. This album, recorded in December 1996 at the Henry Wood Hall in London, showcases the profound artistry of Eugen d'Albert, a renowned pianist and composer of the late Romantic era.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions, including the intricate Piano Sonata in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 10, the playful Capriolen, Op. 32, and the delicate 8 Klavierstücke, Op. 5. Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, highlighting d'Albert's technical virtuosity and expressive depth.

The album begins with the powerful Piano Sonata in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 10, a work that showcases d'Albert's ability to blend passion and technical brilliance. The second half of the album features the charming Capriolen, Op. 32, a suite of five pieces that evoke a sense of playfulness and whimsy. The album concludes with the serene Serenata, a beautiful piece that leaves a lasting impression.

Produced by Amanda Hurton and engineered by Tony Faulkner, this recording captures the nuances of d'Albert's playing with remarkable clarity. The sound quality is exceptional, allowing the listener to appreciate the full range of d'Albert's dynamic and expressive capabilities.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Eugen d'Albert's solo piano music is a testament to the enduring power of the Romantic tradition, and this collection is a fitting tribute to his legacy.

1 oktober 1997

℗ 1997 Hyperion Records Limited

About Eugen d'Albert

Eugen d'Albert, born in Glasgow in 1864, was a captivating figure in the world of classical piano, renowned for his virtuosity and innovative compositions. With a multicultural heritage—his mother was English, and his father was of French and Italian descent—d'Albert's musical journey began in Britain, where he displayed prodigious talent from a young age. At just seventeen, he secured a scholarship to study in Austria, setting the stage for a remarkable career.

D'Albert's prowess as a pianist was matched by his compositional genius. He studied under the legendary Franz Liszt and went on to become a successful opera composer, with his work "Tiefland" being one of his most celebrated operas. His Sonata in F sharp minor, Op. 10, is a testament to his ambitious and intricate craftsmanship, dedicated to the esteemed Hans von Bülow. D'Albert's influence extended beyond his performances and compositions; he also played a significant role in musical education and had notable correspondences with contemporaries like Gustav Mahler.

Throughout his life, d'Albert's artistry defied conventions, making him a standout figure in the late 19th and early 20th-century musical landscape. His legacy endures, captivating audiences with his timeless contributions to the world of classical music.