Franz Joseph Haydn's surviving 52 keyboard sonatas were written during a time of important changes to both keyboard instruments and the structure of sonata form. The harpsichord, for which Haydn wrote his earlier sonatas, was being replaced by the fortepiano with it's more expressive hammer action, which in turn evolved into the robust pianoforte. The sonatas presented here show Haydn exploring the dynamic possibilities of the new instrument.

Tracklist:

Keyboard Sonata No.43 in E Flat Major, Hob.16/28: I. Allegro Moderato
Keyboard Sonata No.43 in E Flat Major, Hob.16/28: II. Minuet
Keyboard Sonata No.43 in E Flat Major, Hob.16/28: III. Finale. Presto
Keyboard Sonata No.44 in F Major, Hob.16/29: I. Moderato
Keyboard Sonata No.44 in F Major, Hob.16/29: II. Adagio
Keyboard Sonata No.44 in F Major, Hob.16/29: III. Tempo Di Minuet
Keyboard Sonata No.47 in B Minor, Hob.16/32: I. Allegro Moderato
Keyboard Sonata No.47 in B Minor, Hob.16/32: II. Minuet
Keyboard Sonata No.47 in B Minor, Hob.16/32: III. Finale. Presto
Keyboard Sonata in F Minor, Hob.17/6: 'Un Piccolo Divertimento - Variations'

UPC: 747313296828
Label: Naxos
Release Date: 7.13.06
Format: CD

Rachel Heard - Piano Sonatas (Limited Edition)