Ferdinand Ries, a friend and pupil of Beethoven, was one of the greatest piano virtuosos of his age, and his compositions reflect a perfect synthesis of classicism and incipient Romantic influence. This album, "Ries: Complete Piano Sonatas & Sonatinas, Vol. 6," released on Naxos in 2013, showcases three of his sonatas for piano duet, each a testament to his remarkable originality and virtuosity. The sonatas are performed with skill and precision, capturing the essence of Ries' unique style that bridges the traditions of Haydn and Mozart with the emerging Romanticism of Schubert and Chopin.
The album features three distinct sonatas: the Sonata for Piano 4 Hands in C Major, Op. 6, "Sonatina," the Sonata for Piano 4 Hands in B-Flat Major, Op. 47, and the Sonata for Piano 4 Hands in A Major, Op. 160. Each sonata is divided into multiple movements, offering a diverse range of musical expressions and technical challenges. The Sonata in A Major, Op. 160, is particularly noteworthy for its rich harmonies and expressive depth.
With a total duration of 55 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Ries' contributions to the piano duet repertoire. Whether you are a fan of classical music, a student of piano performance, or simply an enthusiast looking to discover new compositions, this album offers a captivating journey through the works of a composer who, though less frequently performed today, deserves recognition for his significant contributions to the piano sonata genre.
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