Franz Schubert - Schubert: Arpeggione Sonata / Berg: 4 Pieces / Webern: 3 kleine Stücke (LP)

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Franz Schubert's masterful compositions with this captivating album, released on August 15, 2007, by harmonia mundi. Spanning a concise yet impactful 56 minutes, this collection is a treasure trove of chamber music, classical piano, and violin sonatas that showcase Schubert's unparalleled genius.

The album opens with Schubert's iconic Arpeggione Sonata in A Minor, D. 821, a piece originally composed for an unusual instrument, the arpeggione, but here beautifully rendered for cello and piano. The sonata's three movements—Allegro moderato, Adagio, and Allegretto—exhibit Schubert's signature lyrical melodies and emotional depth.

Following the sonata, the album presents a selection of Schubert's lieder, expertly arranged for cello and piano by Queyras & Tharaud. These include "Das Wandern" and "Ungeduld" from the song cycle "Die schöne Müllerin," as well as the enchanting "Wiegenlied" and the serene "Nacht und Träume."

The album also features two sets of short pieces: Alban Berg's "4 Stücke, Op. 5" and Anton Webern's "3 kleine Stücke, Op. 11." These works, though brief, are rich in texture and innovation, offering a fascinating contrast to Schubert's more romantic style.

Finally, the album concludes with Schubert's Violin Sonata No. 1 in D Major, D. 384, a lively and virtuosic piece that showcases the collaborative brilliance of Schubert's compositions for violin and piano.

This album is a testament to Schubert's enduring legacy, offering a rich and varied exploration of his works that will delight both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.