Nils Mönkemeyer, the acclaimed German violist, teams up with pianist Nicholas Rimmer to present a captivating collection of chamber music in the album "Schubert/Mendelssohn/Schumann: Ohne Worte." Released on Sony Classical in 2009, this album is a beautiful blend of compositions from three classical giants: Franz Schubert, Felix Mendelssohn, and Robert Schumann.
The album opens with Schubert's "Sonata in A Minor, D. 821, 'Arpeggione'," a piece originally written for an arpeggione, a now-obsolete instrument, but here masterfully adapted for the viola. The sonata's three movements showcase Mönkemeyer's technical prowess and expressive depth. The album continues with a selection of Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte" (Songs without Words), including the serene "Im Grünen" and the poignant "Suleika." These pieces, originally for solo piano, are beautifully transcribed for viola and piano, highlighting the intimate and lyrical qualities of the viola.
Schumann's contributions to the album include his famous "Widmung" and "Du bist wie eine Blume," both of which are arrangements for viola and piano. These pieces, along with others like "Mondnacht" and "Schwanengesang," demonstrate Schumann's romantic and introspective style.
The album also features several works by Schubert, including "Herbst," "Der Jüngling an der Quelle," and "Auf dem Wasser zu singen." These pieces, along with the others on the album, showcase the rich and varied repertoire for viola and piano. Mönkemeyer's playing is sensitive and nuanced, bringing out the full expressive potential of each piece. Rimmer's piano accompaniment is equally impressive, providing a solid and supportive foundation for Mönkemeyer's playing.
With a total duration of over an hour, this album is a comprehensive exploration of the viola's expressive range and a testament to the enduring appeal of classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Schubert/Mendelssohn/Schumann: Ohne Worte" is sure to delight and inspire.
