Raff: Piano Works, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Joachim Raff's piano works with the release of "Raff: Piano Works, Vol. 2." This album, released on June 5, 2012, under the Grand Piano label, offers a rich and diverse collection of Raff's compositions, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes.

The album opens with the Fantasie-Sonate, Op. 168, a three-movement sonata that showcases Raff's mastery of form and expression. The sonata's dramatic opening movement, "Allegro patetico," sets the stage for the introspective "Largo" and the energetic "Allegro molto" that follows.

The heart of the album lies in the Variations über ein Originalthema, Op. 179. This expansive set of variations begins with a gentle "Andante" and the original theme, which serves as the foundation for a series of inventive and diverse variations. From the playful "Var. 1" to the stormy "Var. 19" and "Var. 20," marked "Doppio movimento," Raff's creativity and technical prowess shine through. The variations culminate in a majestic "Finale. Moderato maestoso," leaving a lasting impression.

The album concludes with the four piano pieces from Op. 196. These shorter works offer a delightful contrast to the larger compositions, with the evocative "Im Schilf" (No. 1), the tender "Berceuse" (No. 2), the playful "Novellette" (No. 3), and the spirited "Impromptu" (No. 4).

Joachim Raff, a Swiss-German composer and contemporary of Liszt and Wagner, is known for his rich harmonies, inventive forms, and expressive melodies. This album is a testament to his enduring appeal and a treat for any classical music enthusiast.