Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Robert Schumann's piano masterpieces with this exquisite album, featuring Maurizio Pollini at the helm. This 2002 release from Deutsche Grammophon showcases a blend of Schumann's early and late works, offering a unique perspective on the composer's evolution.
The album opens with the rarely performed Allegro in B Minor, Op. 8, a piece that highlights Schumann's early compositional style. Following this is the iconic Kreisleriana, Op. 16, a set of eight pieces that explore a range of moods and characters, from the intensely moving "Äusserst bewegt" to the playful "Schnell und spielend."
The album also introduces the lesser-known Gesänge der Frühe, Op. 133, Schumann's final completed piano work. Composed just months before his mental breakdown, these pieces are imbued with a luminous quality, offering a poignant glimpse into the composer's later years.
Recorded in the acoustically renowned Herkulessaal in Munich, this album benefits from Pollini's renowned technical prowess and interpretive depth. With a duration of just under 50 minutes, it's a concise yet comprehensive journey through Schumann's piano repertoire, perfect for both casual listeners and classical enthusiasts.
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