Ernst von Dohnányi's "Dohnányi: Piano Quintets Op. 1 & 26" is a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's remarkable talent and deep-rooted connection to the Austro-German Romantic tradition. Released on Claves Records in 2015, this album features two of Dohnányi's most celebrated works, performed with exquisite skill and sensitivity.
The First Piano Quintet, Op. 1, composed when Dohnányi was still in his teens, is a testament to his prodigious talent. Praised by Johannes Brahms for its Brahmsian scale and style, this quintet is a masterful blend of thematic clarity and harmonic richness. The Second Piano Quintet, Op. 26, further demonstrates Dohnányi's ability to evoke atmosphere and innovate within the chamber music medium.
This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in classical piano and chamber music. The performances by Trio Nota Bene, Nobuko Imai, and Shmuel Ashkenasi are nothing short of outstanding, bringing Dohnányi's compositions to life with precision and passion. With a total duration of 52 minutes, this album offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Dohnányi's musical genius.