Antti Siirala, the pianist on this recording, launched his international career by winning the Beethoven Competition in Vienna in 1997 as the youngest participant.
Composition History
Brahms's Piano Sonata in F minor was completed in October 1853, shortly after he met Robert and Clara Schumann, and was premiered by Clara Schumann in December 1854.
Composer Biography
Johannes Brahms, at 20 years old and unknown, was hailed as a 'genius' by Robert Schumann after playing for him and his pianist wife Clara Schumann.
Performer Biography
Antti Siirala has won multiple international piano competitions, including the London Piano Competition in 2000, the Dublin Piano Competition in 2003, and the Leeds Piano Competition in autumn 2003.
Compositional Technique
Brahms's Piano Sonata in F minor is notable for its unconventional five-movement structure, differing from the traditional four-movement sonata form.
Compositional Technique
The keyboard writing in Brahms's Piano Sonata in F minor is powerful and grandiose, featuring octaves and heavy chords, possibly influenced by his large hands.
Compositional Technique
Brahms's Sixteen Waltzes, Op. 39, were published in versions for both one and two pianos and dedicated to his patron and friend, the critic Eduard Hanslick.
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