Franz Schubert - Schubert: Piano Sonatas D. 958 & D. 959; Impromptus, D. 899 (LP)

Franz Schubert's "Schubert: Piano Sonatas D. 958 & D. 959; Impromptus, D. 899" is a captivating collection of the composer's late works, released on ECM New Series on April 12, 2019. This album showcases Schubert's profound musical genius, with a selection of his most intimate and expressive piano compositions. The album features the complete Four Impromptus, D. 899, the Three Klavierstücke, D. 946, and the monumental Piano Sonatas D. 958 and D. 959, performed with exquisite artistry by András Schiff.

The Piano Sonata No. 19 in C Minor, D. 958, composed just two months before Schubert's untimely death in 1828, is a powerful and introspective work that plunges the listener into a world of deep emotion and contemplation. The Sonata No. 20 in A Major, D. 959, on the other hand, is a beacon of light and warmth, filled with lyrical melodies and rhythmic vitality. The Impromptus, D. 899, are a series of spontaneous and improvisatory pieces that display Schubert's remarkable ability to convey a wide range of moods and emotions in a concise and elegant form.

With a total duration of 2 hours and 4 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Schubert's late piano works, revealing the depth and complexity of his musical language. The Three Klavierstücke, D. 946, add a touch of contrast and variety to the collection, with their distinct characters and technical challenges. András Schiff's masterful interpretations bring out the full beauty and expressiveness of these works, making this album a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and Schubert admirers alike.