Kuhlau: Works for Solo Piano, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical piano music with Friedrich Kuhlau's "Works for Solo Piano, Vol. 1." This captivating album, released on May 7, 2021, under the Dacapo label, showcases the brilliance of German-born Danish composer Friedrich Daniel Rudolf Kuhlau, a prominent figure during the Classical and Romantic periods. Spanning a total of 71.5 minutes, this collection features a selection of Kuhlau's most renowned sonatinas and sonatas, performed with exquisite skill by Marie-Luise Bodendorff.

The album opens with the Divertissement in E-Flat Major, Op. 37, a delightful suite of five movements that showcase Kuhlau's mastery of form and melody. Following this, the album presents three charming sonatinas in C Major, G Major, and F Major, Op. 20, each consisting of three movements that highlight the composer's lyrical and inventive spirit. The album concludes with the expansive Piano Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 4, a work of considerable depth and sophistication, composed before Kuhlau's relocation from Germany.

Kuhlau's piano works are known for their melodic beauty, technical virtuosity, and harmonic richness, and this album offers a comprehensive overview of his contributions to the solo piano repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. Marie-Luise Bodendorff's sensitive and expressive performances bring Kuhlau's music to life, making this album a true gem for any classical music lover's collection.