Jens Lühr – Kuhlau: Piano Sonatas (2018)
FLAC (tracks) 24 bit/96 kHz | Time – 56:47 minutes | 893 MB | Genre: Classical
Studio Masters, Official Digital Download | Digital Booklet, Front Cover | © Grand Piano
Friederich Kuhlau was among the most important early Romantic composers in Denmark, becoming known as the ‘Danish Beethoven’ for his popular works for flute. The etude-like Piano Sonata, Op. 127 reveals a deep expressiveness reminiscent of Chopin’s studies, while the sophisticated Piano Sonata, Op. 8a shows Kuhlau’s contemplative, darker side before closing with typical virtuoso esprit. The charm and elegance of the Sonatina, Op. 21 No. 1 has delighted piano students for generations. Jens Luhr was born in the same town as Friedrich Kuhlau, Uelzen, in northern Germany. There at the local music school, Luhr played- along with many other young piano students- the Kuhlau Sonatinas. He went on to study at the prestigious conservatories of music in Hannover, Wurzburg, Basle, and Leipzig. Luhr is known as a soloist and chamber musician, as well as being an interpreter of contemporary music, playing or taking part in several premieres. In 2012 and 2014 he won second prize at the International Music Competition of France in the highest category for pianists.
“I have a passion for Kuhlau’s music as it inspires me to express myself within his subtle technicality. I have a special interest for this composer, who in my view is still not fully appreciated by the wider classical music audiences. I have travelled to various libraries in Copenhagen and Munich to research his piano works, and as I discovered more and more beautiful music and developed a passion for this composer, I hope others will come to enjoy the richness and musicality of his works through this recording.” (Jens Lühr)
Tracklist:
1. Piano Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: I. Allegro 11:05
2. Piano Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: II. Adagio con molto espressione 04:05
3. Piano Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: III. Finale. Allegro con spirito 06:52
4. Piano Sonata in A Minor, Op. 8a: I. Allegro non troppo ed espressivo 09:38
5. Piano Sonata in A Minor, Op. 8a: II. Adagio con anima 08:46
6. Piano Sonata in A Minor, Op. 8a: III. Allegro di molto con agitazione 08:06
7. Piano Sonatina in C Major, Op. 20 No. 1: I. Allegro 03:05
8. Piano Sonatina in C Major, Op. 20 No. 1: II. Andante 02:21
9. Piano Sonatina in C Major, Op. 20 No. 1: III. Rondo. Allegro 02:30
Personnel:
Jens Lühr, piano
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