My introduction to Brahms was his Ballade, Op. 10 No. 1 with which I opened my first national radio and television broadcast in Berlin. Although for many years following, my focus was particularly on Schumann as well as many other composers, Schumann inevitably brought my attention more closely back to Brahms’ piano works.
A complete Brahms cycle gives insight into every aspect of his artistry. The recordings offer his output chronologically on five CDs. The concert performances benefit from contrasting programming as each of the four recitals includes a major work from his youthful and stormy early, masterly middle and wistful late periods.
1ST RECITAL
Scherzo in E flat minor, Op. 4
Variations on a Theme by Schumann, Op. 9
Sieben Fantasien, Op. 116
Interval
Sonata No. 1 in C, Op. 1
3RD RECITAL
Zwei Rhapsodien, Op. 79
Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 21 No. 1
Sechs Klavierstücke, Op. 118
Interval
Sonata No. 3 in F minor, Op. 5
2ND RECITAL
Vier Balladen, Op. 10
Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 35
Drei Intermezzi, Op. 117
Interval
Sonata No. 2 in F sharp minor, Op. 2
4TH RECITAL
Acht Klavierstücke, Op. 76
Variations on a Hungarian Song, Op. 21 No. 2
Vier Klavierstücke, Op. 119
Interval
Variations on a Theme by Händel, Op. 24
Albums
Reviews
“Highest intensity coupled with transparency and lyrical tenderness.”
Süddeutsche Zeitung
“Andreas Boyde is more than just a pianist:
he is an explorer of meaning as well as a musicologist and passionate performer – a rare combination.“
Crescendo Magazine
“Captivating. This is a disc to get, and a signal to hear more Brahms from Boyde.”
Fanfare Magazine
“A brilliant set of the composer’s complete works.”
Piano News
“A phenomenally clear interpretation which leaves the listener only dimly aware of their undoubted technical hurdles.”
Klassik.com
“Unforgettable poetic moments.”
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