Piano Rarities: Schulhoff

Dive into the captivating world of Erwin Schulhoff's piano compositions with "Piano Rarities: Schulhoff." Released on January 1, 2009, under the Delta Music Entertainment GmbH & Co. KG label, this album is a treasure trove of chamber music that showcases Schulhoff's unique blend of classical and jazz influences. Spanning a total of 17 tracks, the album is a testament to Schulhoff's versatility and innovation, featuring works such as the Piano Sonata No. 1 and No. 3, as well as a series of Jazz Improvisations for Two Pianos.

The album opens with the Piano Sonata No. 1, WV 69, a four-movement work dedicated to the renowned author Thomas Mann. Each movement is a masterclass in emotional depth and technical prowess, from the energetic "Allegro molto" to the introspective "Molto tranquillo." The Piano Sonata No. 3, WV 88, dedicated to Henri Gil-Marchex, follows, offering a similar journey through a range of moods and styles.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Schulhoff's Jazz Improvisations for Two Pianos, a playful and imaginative exploration of jazz idioms. Tracks like "Dein kokettes Lächeln" and "Tango" highlight Schulhoff's ability to blend classical structure with jazz spontaneity, creating a sound that is both sophisticated and accessible.

Performances on the album are by Margarete Babinsky and Andreas Wykydal, who bring a sense of passion and precision to Schulhoff's compositions. The album is a must-listen for fans of classical and jazz music alike, offering a unique perspective on the work of a composer who defied categorization. Whether you're a seasoned concert-goer or a casual listener, "Piano Rarities: Schulhoff" is sure to captivate and inspire.

Erwin Schulhoff, born in Prague in 1894, was a pioneering Czech composer and pianist whose career was tragically cut short by the Nazi regime. A true innovator, Schulhoff was one of the first European composers to embrace jazz, incorporating dance forms like ragtime, tango, and foxtrot into his piano works. His music is known for its adventurous and muscular qualities, reflecting his wide range of influences and forward-thinking approach. Despite his premature death in the Wülzburg concentration camp in 1942, Schulhoff's compositions continue to captivate audiences with their power and variety. His legacy as a composer who was ahead of his time endures, making his music a compelling exploration of 20th-century musical evolution.