Liebestod

Join violinist Friedemann Eichhorn and pianist Fazil Say on an enchanting journey through the heart of mid-19th-century German repertoire with their captivating album, "Liebestod." This exquisite collection, released on Naxos, showcases the profound musical synergy between these two renowned artists, offering a fresh perspective on beloved classics and rare gems.

The album opens with Robert Schumann's Violin Sonata No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 105, a work that highlights the expressive range of both instruments. Eichhorn's virtuosic violin playing is beautifully complemented by Say's sensitive and nuanced piano accompaniment. The three Romanzen, Op. 94, also by Schumann, follow, offering a more intimate and lyrical contrast.

A highlight of the album is the world premiere recording of Fazil Say's ingenious transcriptions of the Prelude and Liebestod from Richard Wagner's Tristan und Isolde. Influenced by Franz Liszt, Say's arrangements bring a new dimension to these iconic pieces, making them a standout feature of the album.

The F-A-E Sonata, a collaborative work by Albert Dietrich, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms, is another notable inclusion. This composite sonata is a testament to the camaraderie and mutual respect among these great composers, and Eichhorn and Say's performance brings out the unique character of each movement.

Throughout the album, Eichhorn and Say's deep understanding of the repertoire and their shared musical vision shine through. Their performances are marked by a sense of spontaneity and joy, making "Liebestod" a truly captivating listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.