Experience the final concert performances of legendary pianist Wilhelm Backhaus with "The Last Concert," a captivating album released by Decca Music Group Ltd. in 2020. This extraordinary collection features live recordings from June 1969, showcasing Backhaus's masterful interpretations of some of the most beloved works in the classical piano repertoire.
The album spans a rich and diverse selection of pieces, including Beethoven's monumental "Waldstein" Sonata, Schubert's evocative "Moments Musicaux," Mozart's enchanting Piano Sonata No. 11, and Schubert's Impromptus. Additionally, it features works by Beethoven and Schumann, highlighting Backhaus's versatility and deep understanding of these composers' intentions.
Wilhelm Backhaus, born in Leipzig, Germany, was renowned for his selfless dedication to the composers' visions. A pioneer in recording, his 1909 recording of Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto stands as the first known concerto recording. This album offers a unique opportunity to hear Backhaus's final live performances, captured in the intimate setting of Ossiach, Austria.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 34 minutes, "The Last Concert" is a testament to Backhaus's enduring legacy and his unparalleled artistry. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and memorable listening experience.
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": 1. Allegro con brio - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": 2. Introduzione. Adagio molto - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": 3. Rondo. Allegretto moderato - Prestissimo - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 1 in C Major: Moderato - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 2 in A-Flat Major: Andantino - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 3 in F Minor: Allegro moderato - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 4 in C-Sharp Minor: Moderato - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 5 in F Minor : Allegro vivace - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780: No. 6 in A-Flat Major: Allegretto - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: 1. Tema (Andante grazioso) con variazioni - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: 2. Menuetto - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: 3. Alla Turca. Allegretto - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Wilhelm Backhaus
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 2 in A-Flat Major: Allegretto - Live in Ossiach / 26th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31 No. 3 "The Hunt": 1. Allegro - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31 No. 3 "The Hunt": 2. Scherzo. Allegretto vivace - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31 No. 3 "The Hunt": 3. Menuetto. Moderato e grazioso - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Backhaus
8 Fantasiestücke, Op. 12: 1. Des Abends - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Robert Schumann, Wilhelm Backhaus
8 Fantasiestücke, Op. 12: 3. Warum? - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Robert Schumann, Wilhelm Backhaus
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 2 in A-Flat Major: Allegretto - Live in Ossiach / 28th June, 1969Franz Schubert, Wilhelm Backhaus