During his short and turbulent life, Robert Schumann often composed as if in a trance. This exuberance, this impulsivity is particularly apparent in his works for piano and orchestra, all closely connected to his love for Clara Wieck. - "A cross between symphony, concerto and great sonata, not a concerto for the virtuoso" was his aim - and this is brilliantly realized; however, these works require a virtuoso with nimble, as well as strong and sensitive fingers, a pianist able to recreate Schumann's unique romantic world. Gerhard Oppitz achieves this in exemplary fashion, flawlessly mastering the technical demands in an interpretation imbued with a very personal passion for one of our greatest composers - all the while supported by and in dialogue with an orchestra ideally suited to his vision: The Bamberger Symphoniker.

Tracklist:

Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: I. Allegro Affettuoso
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: II. Intermezzo: Andantino Grazioso
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: III. Allegro Vivace
Introduction And Concert Allegro, Op. 134
Conzertstuck In F Major For 4 Horns And Orchestra, Op. 86 (Early Version For Piano And Orchestra): I. Lebhaft
Conzertstuck In F Major For 4 Horns And Orchestra, Op. 86 (Early Version For Piano And Orchestra): II. Romanze
Conzertstuck In F Major For 4 Horns And Orchestra, Op. 86 (Early Version For Piano And Orchestra): III. Sehr Lebhaft
Introduction And Allegro Appassionato, Op. 92: I. Introduction: Langsam
Introduction And Allegro Appassionato, Op. 92: II. Allegro

UPC: 812973018117
Label: Tudor
Release Date: 4.24.12
Format: CD

Gerhard Oppitz - Works for Piano & Orchestra (CD)