Wilhelm Kempff's 1925 recording of Beethoven's First Concerto was the first-ever recording of the work.
Performer Biography
At the age of nine, Wilhelm Kempff could transpose any prelude or fugue from Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier into any key from memory.
Historical Context
The recording of Beethoven's Third Concerto with the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra was made in June 1942, a month after the British began aerial bombing of German cities.
Interpretation
Wilhelm Kempff often used his own cadenzas in the Beethoven concertos, with only one exception in the First Concerto where he adapted Beethoven's own.
Performer Biography
Wilhelm Kempff was also a serious composer, studying with Robert Kahn, and produced a large body of works including operas, symphonies, concertos, and songs.
Recording & Production
Unlike many other top-tier musicians, Wilhelm Kempff actively enjoyed the process of recording in the studio.
Performer Biography
Wilhelm Kempff, the pianist on this album, came from a family of organists and cantors, and was initially set to follow a similar path.
