Schulhoff: Piano Cycles 1919 - 1936

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Erwin Schulhoff's piano compositions with the album "Schulhoff: Piano Cycles 1919 - 1936." This collection, released on January 1, 1998, by SUPRAPHON a.s., offers a rich tapestry of chamber music that spans a diverse range of styles and moods. Schulhoff, a versatile and innovative composer, presents a compelling journey through his creative evolution over nearly two decades.

The album begins with "Esquisses de Jazz," a playful and rhythmic suite that showcases Schulhoff's affinity for jazz influences. Each of the six pieces, from the lively "Rag" to the energetic "Black Bottom," brings a unique flavor of early 20th-century jazz to the classical piano repertoire.

Following this, "Ostinato, Sechs familiäre Angelegenheiten" offers a whimsical and charming set of pieces dedicated to family members. These playful compositions, such as "Papa" and "Mama," are both humorous and heartfelt, reflecting Schulhoff's ability to blend humor and emotion.

The album continues with "Music für Klavier, Op. 35," a more introspective and varied collection. The "Vorspiel" sets a contemplative tone, while the "Thema mit Variationen" and "Vivo e giocoso" showcase Schulhoff's mastery of form and rhythm. The "Nachspiel" concludes this set with a reflective and improvisatory feel.

"Elf Inventionen" presents a series of inventive and technically demanding pieces. Each invention, from the slow and deliberate "Lento" to the brisk and playful "Presto leggiero," demonstrates Schulhoff's compositional skill and his ability to explore a wide range of emotions and styles.

"Zehn Klavierstücke, Op. 20" offers a collection of contrasting pieces, from the simple and serene "Sehr einfach und ruhig" to the bold and aggressive "Mit Brutalität." This set highlights Schulhoff's versatility and his willingness to experiment with different musical expressions.

Finally, "Studien. Zwei Klavierstücke" concludes the album with two contrasting compositions. The "Optimistische Komposition" is a lively and upbeat piece, while "Den tschechischen Arbeitern" is a march dedicated to Czech workers, reflecting Schulhoff's social and political consciousness.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Erwin Schulhoff's piano works from 1919 to 1936. Whether you are a fan of classical music, jazz, or contemporary compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.