András Schiff, the renowned pianist known for his profound interpretations and technical mastery, presents a captivating album titled "Bach - Busoni - Beethoven: Violin Sonatas." Released on October 27, 2017, under the prestigious ECM New Series label, this album is a testament to Schiff's artistry and his deep connection with the classical repertoire.
The album features a selection of violin sonatas by three titans of classical music: Johann Sebastian Bach, Ferruccio Busoni, and Ludwig van Beethoven. Schiff's nuanced performances bring out the intricate details and emotional depth of each piece, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.
The album opens with Bach's Violin Sonata No. 3 in E Major, BWV 1016, showcasing Schiff's ability to navigate the complex counterpoint and harmonic richness of Bach's music. The sonata's four movements, ranging from the serene Adagio to the lively Allegro, are rendered with precision and expressive sensitivity.
Following Bach, Schiff delves into the world of Ferruccio Busoni, a composer and pianist known for his virtuosic transcriptions and original compositions. The Violin Sonata No. 2 in E Minor, BV 244, is a work of profound beauty and technical demand, which Schiff interprets with both technical brilliance and emotional resonance.
The album concludes with Beethoven's Violin Sonata No. 10 in G Major, Op. 96, a work that exemplifies the composer's innovative spirit and lyrical genius. Schiff's performance is marked by a keen sense of phrasing and dynamics, capturing the essence of Beethoven's musical language.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of the violin sonata form, as interpreted by three of the most influential composers in classical music history. András Schiff's masterful playing and insightful interpretations make this album a standout in his discography and a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast.