Dohnanyi: Nursery Variations; Liszt: Totentanz; Rachmaninov: Paganini Rhapsody

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano with Ernst von Dohnányi's exquisite album, released on January 1, 2013, under Decca Music Group Ltd. This remarkable collection spans a little over an hour and thirteen minutes, offering a rich tapestry of chamber music and classical piano compositions that showcase Dohnányi's virtuosity and artistic depth.

The album opens with Dohnányi's Variations on a Nursery Song, Op. 25, a delightful suite that transforms a simple nursery tune into a symphony of emotions and technical brilliance. Each variation, from the majestic "Introduzione" to the lively "Finale Fugato," reveals Dohnányi's mastery of form and expression.

Following this, the album presents Franz Liszt's Totentanz, S.126, a dramatic and powerful paraphrase on the "Dies Irae" theme, performed with piano and orchestra. This piece is a testament to Dohnányi's ability to convey intense emotion and technical prowess.

The album concludes with two works inspired by the themes of Niccolò Paganini: Sergei Rachmaninov's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43, and Dohnányi's own Paganini Variations for Piano & Orchestra. These pieces highlight Dohnányi's interpretive skills and his ability to breathe new life into familiar themes.

Ernst von Dohnányi's album is a treasure trove of classical piano artistry, offering a diverse and engaging listening experience that will captivate both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.