Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Joseph Martin Kraus, a prolific composer of the Classical era, with the release of "Kraus: Sämtlicht Klavierwerke." This album, released on June 7, 2011, under the Musicaphon label, is a comprehensive collection of Kraus's keyboard works, offering a rich tapestry of chamber and classical music that spans over an hour and seventeen minutes.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, including sonatas, rondos, and dances, each showcasing Kraus's distinctive style and mastery of the keyboard. The Keyboard Sonata in E-Flat Major, VB 195, opens the album with a lively Allegro moderato, followed by a contemplative Andante con variazioni, and concluding with a spirited Allegro ma non troppo presto. The Keyboard Sonata in E Major, VB 196, presents a similar journey, with a Vivace opening, a delicate Adagio - Allegretto - Adagio, and a charming Andantino con variazioni.
In addition to the sonatas, the album includes a Rondo in F Major, VB 191, a Larghetto in G Major, VB 194, a Tema con variazioni, VB 193, and a set of 2 Neue kuriose Menuetten (Scherzenminuetten), VB 190. The album concludes with a Swedish Dance (Svenska dans), VB 192, offering a taste of Kraus's national heritage.
"Kraus: Sämtlicht Klavierwerke" is a testament to Joseph Martin Kraus's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the classical music canon. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.