Schubert: Piano Sonata No. 21 & Impromptus

Introduction

■ Rudolf Buchbinder, known as "Rudi when it comes to pianists," is one of Vienna's most beloved pianists, the birthplace of classical music. He is internationally acclaimed for his interpretations of German and Austrian piano music, from Haydn to Brahms. He frequently visits Japan, and his June 2012 tour, where he showcased his mature pianism in both recitals and concertos, drew rave reviews from various publications. ■ This album features a live recital held in Vienna three months after his Japan tour, acclaimed as "presenting a new image of Schubert." It features Schubert's posthumous Piano Sonata No. 21 and Impromptus Op. 90. Both were composed in his final years, and the musical depth, which seems to foreshadow death and the afterlife, captivates listeners with its captivating quality. Buchbinder's extensive knowledge of the works, based on his extensive study of manuscripts and first editions, makes this album truly compelling. Buchbinder will also perform Schubert's Piano Sonata No. 21 at this year's inaugural Soloistenkonzert at the Salzburg Festival. This marks Buchbinder's first recording of Sonata No. 21. This is his third recording of the Impromptus Opus, following the Teldec and EMI recordings. ■Blu-spec CD2

Media Reviews and More

This live album features Schubert's posthumous Piano Sonata No. 21 and Impromptus Opus 90 by pianist Rudolf Buchbinder, born in Austria in 1946. This is an incredibly rich and comprehensive work, made possible only by Buchbinder's extensive knowledge of the works, having studied manuscripts and first editions. (C)RS