Reinecke: Works for Piano Duo - Piano Four Hands

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Carl Reinecke's "Works for Piano Duo - Piano Four Hands," a remarkable collection of compositions that showcase the brilliance of this Romantic-era German composer. Released in 2011 by Ars Produktion, this album is a testament to Reinecke's mastery of the piano duo form, offering a rich and diverse listening experience that spans a variety of moods and styles.

The album features 35 tracks, including the expansive Sonata for Piano 4 Hands in A Minor, Op. 35, a work that demonstrates Reinecke's ability to craft intricate and engaging musical narratives. The sonata's four movements take the listener on a journey through a range of emotions, from the intense and dramatic opening Allegro molto moderato to the playful and graceful Scherzino: Allegretto grazioso.

In addition to the sonata, the album includes a variety of other works, such as the Improvisata uber eine Gavotte von Christoph Willibald Gluck, Op. 125, a set of variations that showcases Reinecke's skill at developing and elaborating on a theme. The 3 Kleine Fantasien, Op. 9, offers a contrast in mood and style, with each of the three short pieces presenting a distinct character and atmosphere.

The album also features the Musik zu Andersens Marchen vom Schweinehirten, Op. 286, a suite of seven pieces inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Swineherd." This work is a delightful blend of narrative and musical invention, with each movement painting a vivid picture of the story's characters and events.

Performed by the talented duo of Dian Baker and Eckart Sellheim, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the rich and varied world of 19th-century piano music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Reinecke's "Works for Piano Duo - Piano Four Hands" is sure to captivate and inspire.