Stephen Hough - Tsontakis: Man of Sorrows – Berg: Piano Sonata – Webern: Variations (LP)

Stephen Hough's 2007 album "Tsontakis: Man of Sorrows – Berg: Piano Sonata – Webern: Variations" is a captivating exploration of classical piano repertoire, blending contemporary and early 20th-century masterpieces. The album opens with George Tsontakis's "Man of Sorrows," a profound and introspective six-movement work that delves into themes of sorrow and redemption. Hough's nuanced performance brings out the depth and complexity of Tsontakis's composition, making it a standout piece on the album.

The second half of the album features Alban Berg's intense and expressive Piano Sonata, Op. 1, a work that showcases Hough's technical prowess and emotional depth. The sonata's complex harmonies and dramatic shifts in mood are rendered with precision and sensitivity, highlighting Berg's innovative approach to tonality.

The album concludes with Anton Webern's Variations for Piano, Op. 27, a series of variations that demonstrate Webern's mastery of form and structure. Hough's performance is marked by its clarity and precision, bringing out the intricate details of Webern's composition.

In addition to these major works, the album also includes Arnold Schoenberg's "Sechs Kleine Klavierstücke, Op. 19," a set of six short piano pieces that explore a range of moods and textures. Hough's interpretation is both playful and introspective, capturing the essence of Schoenberg's innovative style.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a testament to Stephen Hough's versatility and artistry as a pianist. His performances are marked by their technical brilliance, emotional depth, and keen musical insight, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical piano music.