Dussek: Complete Original Works for Piano Four-Hands

Featuring

Alexandra Nepomnyashchaya
Richard Egarr
Duo Pleyel
Jan Ladislav Dussek

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Compositional Technique

Dussek was a crucial figure in the development of both piano music and the instrument itself, working with English piano-maker John Broadwood to develop the piano's tonal and physical ranges.

Recording & Production

This album features the complete original works for piano four-hands by Jan Ladislav Dussek, an unjustly ignored master.

Instruments

The recording uses an 1848 Pleyel piano, which was Chopin's preferred maker, tuned to a' = 441 with Young 2 (1800) temperament.

Composer Biography

Dussek was known as 'Le Beau' in his younger days and was so famous for his beautiful profile that pianos were often placed sideways for audiences to appreciate it.

Composer Biography

Jan Ladislav Dussek, born in 1760, was as famous and influential in his time as Paganini, Chopin, and Liszt were to their generations.

Interpretation

The Duo Pleyel allowed themselves freedoms of tempo and expression, and embellished repetitions, to deliver this repertoire in the true spirit of the rich musical menu.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Dussek's music is often considered unbelievably advanced in style compared to his contemporary Mozart, with a 'Romantic' sound in both melody and harmony.