Máté Szűcs, the violist on this recording, served as Principal Viola of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra from 2011 to 2018.
Interpretation
Although the Brahms sonatas and Schumann's Romances were originally for wind instruments, it was customary at the time to perform such pieces on other instruments.
Composition History
The clarinetist Richard Mühlfeld inspired Johannes Brahms to compose four major chamber works, including the two sonatas on this album.
Interpretation
Johannes Brahms himself authorized the viola version of his sonatas, preparing alternative parts for the publisher to ensure their 'second life'.
Composition History
Robert Schumann's Three Romances, Op. 94, were composed for oboe and piano in 1849 during a fertile period for the composer, despite his declining mental health.
Composition History
Johannes Brahms's two sonatas on this album were originally conceived for clarinet and piano in 1894, when the composer was considering retirement.
Performer Biography
Dénes Várjon, the pianist on this recording, won first prize in the Concours Géza Anda international piano competition in Zurich.
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Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano, Op. 120 - Schumann: Märchenbilder, Op. 113
