Schumann: Aufschwung, Op. 12, No. 2 (Soaring)

An original programme featuring works for cello and piano by Schumann, arrangements of works written originally for other instruments.

Schumann himself left the choice of instrument open for some of his works: the clarinet, oboe and cello often changed roles.

The Romanzen Op. 94 were originally for oboe and piano, but work very well played on the cello, as arranged by the famous 19th century cellist Grützmacher. Also the violin sonata Op. 105 fares excellently through the golden, melancholy sonorities of the cello.

Schumann lived his whole life under the spell of the great Johann Sebastian Bach, and as a tribute to Bach’s genius Schumann added a piano part to the famous Cello Suites.

This is the second issue of Schumann transcriptions for cello by the duo Francesco Dillon/Emanuele Torquati. Their earlier issue BC 94060 received enthusiastic comment in the international press: “comes across with vibrant conviction” (Musicweb International).

“Richter is capable of making every other pianist sound like a beginner.” Gramophone

Indisputably one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, Sviatoslav Richter mesmerized audiences with his stunning pianism, charismatic stage presence and powerful interpretations of music ranging from Bach to Shostakovich.

In these recordings, the earliest of which were made after he had won joint first prize at the All- Union Piano Competition in Moscow, Richter’s dazzling technique, fluency of execution and seamless legato are already to the fore.

His 1948 recording of the Fantasiestücke, Op. 12, is here reissued for the first time since the original 78rpm issue.

“[Richter’s] work is never less than interesting and the range in which he excels, quite astounding.” Gramophone

Producer and Audio Restoration Engineer: Ward Marston

Paderewski was perhaps the most famous, and certainly the most highly paid, pianist who ever lived. In the years between 1890 and the First World War his fame reached levels now only reserved for the biggest pop stars and when he became prime-minister of Poland after the end of the war his deification was complete. He resumed his career in the 1920’s and continued to perform until his death. Unfortunately most of his recordings were made later in life and do not capture his playing in its prime, a fact which has somewhat damaged his posthumous reputation, so it is particularly important that these earliest recordings, which can redress the balance, are made available complete for the first time. This is playing very different in style from what we are used to today, but aside from its historic importance, taken on its own terms it is quite clear what a great communicator Padereswki was. And it’s good to be reminded in works like Liszt’s La Leggierezza study that at this point in his career there was nothing lacking in technique either.

Several titles included are taken from Paderewski’s own test pressings of unissued discs held at the International Piano Archive, University of Maryland, and this is their first release. A must for collectors!

interspersed with readings about Schumann's life