Schmidt: Beethoven Variations - Piano Concerto

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Franz Schmidt's "Beethoven Variations - Piano Concerto," a masterful blend of chamber music that showcases the composer's virtuosic skill and deep musical insight. Released on January 1, 2000, under the CPO label, this album is a testament to Schmidt's ability to weave intricate variations on a theme by Beethoven, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

The album begins with the "Konzertante Variationen über ein Thema von Beethoven," a series of seven variations that explore the theme in a variety of moods and tempos, from the languid "Langsam" to the lively "Sehr lebhaft." Each variation is a jewel in its own right, demonstrating Schmidt's mastery of form and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through music.

The second half of the album features the "Piano Concerto in E-Flat Major," a work that showcases Schmidt's ability to write for the piano with both technical brilliance and lyrical beauty. The concerto is a journey in three movements, from the energetic "Allegro moderato un poco" to the lyrical "Andante" and the exuberant "Vivace."

With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Whether you are a fan of chamber music, a student of composition, or simply a lover of beautiful music, Franz Schmidt's "Beethoven Variations - Piano Concerto" is sure to delight and inspire.