Toch: Solo Piano Pieces

Ernst Toch's "Toch: Solo Piano Pieces" is a captivating journey through the composer's diverse and expressive solo piano works. Released on June 2, 2017, under the Capriccio label, this album spans a rich collection of pieces that showcase Toch's unique voice and technical mastery. With a duration of over an hour, the album offers a comprehensive exploration of Toch's compositions, from the playful and whimsical to the introspective and profound.

The album opens with the "Burlesken, Op. 31," a set of three pieces that exude a sense of humor and wit, followed by the more introspective "3 Klavierstücke, Op. 32." The "Capriccetti, Op. 36" series brings a mix of moods, from the tender and reflective to the lively and humorous. The "10 Anfangs-Etüden, Op. 59" and "10 Mittelstufen-Etüden, Op. 57" provide a series of etudes that are both technically challenging and musically engaging, offering a glimpse into Toch's pedagogical approach.

The "Kleinstadtbilder, Op. 49" is a particularly charming suite that paints vivid pictures of small-town life, each piece evoking a different scene or emotion. The album concludes with the "Piano Sonata, Op. 47," a substantial and compelling work that showcases Toch's ability to craft a cohesive and expressive large-scale composition.

Throughout the album, Toch's music is characterized by its melodic inventiveness, harmonic richness, and rhythmic vitality. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Toch's work or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.