Liszt, Berg, Bartók & Prokofiev: Piano Sonatas

Peter Donohoe's "Liszt, Berg, Bartók & Prokofiev: Piano Sonatas" is a captivating journey through the intricate and diverse world of classical piano sonatas. Released in 2011 under Parlophone UK, this album spans a total of 1 hour and 17 minutes, featuring 14 tracks that showcase the virtuosity and depth of Peter Donohoe's playing. The album is a testament to Donohoe's technical prowess and artistic sensitivity, as he navigates the complex compositions of four distinct and influential composers.

The album opens with Franz Liszt's monumental Piano Sonata in B Minor, S.178, a work that demands both technical brilliance and emotional depth. Donohoe's interpretation is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the dramatic and lyrical elements of Liszt's composition. Following Liszt, the album includes Alban Berg's Piano Sonata, Op. 1, a work that blends late Romanticism with early modernism, showcasing Donohoe's ability to navigate the shifting tonal landscapes of Berg's music.

The second half of the album features Béla Bartók's Piano Sonata, Sz.80, and Sergei Prokofiev's Piano Sonata No. 7 in B-Flat Major, Op. 83. Bartók's sonata is a tour de force of rhythmic complexity and harmonic innovation, while Prokofiev's sonata is a blend of lyrical beauty and rhythmic vitality. Donohoe's performances of these works are marked by their precision, clarity, and expressive depth, highlighting the unique qualities of each composer's style.

Throughout the album, Peter Donohoe demonstrates a remarkable ability to convey the emotional and intellectual depth of these complex works. His playing is characterized by its technical precision, dynamic range, and expressive subtlety, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical piano music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Liszt, Berg, Bartók & Prokofiev: Piano Sonatas" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.