In 18th-century Vienna, art song drew on diverse influences, including intellectual Lieder from the North German School, folk-like songs from Swabia, and Italian opera arias.
Instruments
Kristian Bezuidenhout, the fortepiano player, performs on a Rosenberger fortepiano from around 1820, tuned to A = 430 with unequal temperament.
Historical Context
The Lied (art song) was not revered as a genre in its own right until after the Congress of Vienna in 1815, during the Biedermeier period, which favored domesticity and the increased presence of the piano in middle-class homes.
Album & Artwork
The album title, "Heart to Heart," reflects the intimate nature of the art songs presented, which were a somewhat motley matter in 18th-century Vienna.
Performer Biography
Mark Padmore, the tenor on this recording, has an international career in opera, concert, and recital, and is particularly noted for his performances in Bach's Passions.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a renowned German writer, became the literary lifeblood of the Romantic Lied, influencing composers like Mozart and Beethoven.
Composition History
Beethoven moved to Vienna in late 1792 with a commission to receive 'Mozart's spirit from Haydn's hands,' becoming Haydn's pupil shortly after.
