Search - Schubert, Brendel :: Piano Sonata D959 / German Dances D783

Alfred Brendel plays Schubert

Amy | 10/22/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When I listen to this cd I find myself enjoying so much the talent of Alfred Brendel and telling myself again that I have to get more of his music. His Mozart is beautiful, his rendition of Liszt's Annees de Pelerinage is one of the best I know and his Schubert is in a class of its own. The most amazing thing with Brendel is, for me, the amazing sensitivity he manages to express through music. Everything is heartfelt and human. His technique is exceptional and serves the expression to the fullest extent. This cd is a nice glimpse into Brendel's view on Schubert. The main feature is the Sonata D. 959. A beautiful version, very articulate, shining and radiating sincere and heartfelt music. It leaves no need for more and leaves you with a beautiful feeling over the unbearable lightness of being. The other pieces on this cd are treated by the Austrian pianist with the same care and attention to detail. The Hungarian melody is a shocker. Such a small piece unfolds with such a powerful drama that is hard to believe. In three minutes an entire destiny is pulsating to a painful climax and than abandons itself to peace. The same qualities are manifest in the 16 German dances. Brendel manages to bring to light their individual character in a beautiful performance. The way Brendel plays Schubert give all the reasons for him being a living legend and dean of the contemporary pianists. For those who are not familiar with him or his approach to Schubert this is a good start. It is a very rewarding experience listening to Brendel play."

The German Dances

JEB | Corvallis, OR United States | 08/19/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this CD for the German Dances, several of which I play myself. To hear Brendel play them is a joy. His talent obscures the complexity of the pieces. A must have if you are a Schubert or a Brendel fan."