Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with Ernst von Dohnányi's "Piano Quintets Nos. 1 & 2." Released in 2014 under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Dohnányi's mastery as a Hungarian composer, pianist, and conductor. Spanning a concise yet impactful 54 minutes, the album features two of Dohnányi's most celebrated works: the Piano Quintet No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 1, and the Piano Quintet No. 2 in E-Flat Minor, Op. 26.
The first quintet, composed when Dohnányi was just 18, showcases his early genius with its dramatic and passionate first movement, a lively scherzo, a tender adagio, and a spirited finale. The second quintet, written nearly two decades later, reveals a more mature and refined style, with its expressive allegro non troppo, a delicate intermezzo, and a profound moderato.
Performed by the Enso Quartet and pianist Gottlieb Wallisch, this recording brings together a stellar ensemble known for their nuanced interpretations and technical brilliance. Each track is a journey through Dohnányi's rich musical landscape, offering a blend of intensity, lyricism, and virtuosity that will captivate both classical piano and chamber music enthusiasts. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Dohnányi's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is a must-listen that highlights the enduring appeal of his piano quintets.
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