Mozart significantly extended the form of piano variations, composing 15 such works, which were among the most frequently played compositions in keyboard literature until well into the 19th century.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mozart's keyboard output is extensive because he combined the roles of a brilliant composer and an outstanding keyboard player.
Composer Biography
Mozart was considered one of the greatest keyboard virtuosos of his era, a fact confirmed by an eyewitness, Ernst Ludwig Gerber, in 1790.
Interpretation
Ronald Brautigam has developed a reputation as a leading exponent of the fortepiano, with a particular interest in Mozart's music for this instrument.
Composition History
Mozart's studies of earlier composers like Bach and Handel were facilitated by Baron Gottfried van Swieten, who granted Mozart access to his personal library of scores.
Instruments
The fortepiano used for this recording was made by Paul McNulty in Amsterdam in 1992, modeled after an instrument by Anton Gabriel Walter from around 1790.
Performer Biography
Ronald Brautigam, the fortepiano performer on this album, was born in Amsterdam in 1954 and has received the Netherlands Music Prize.
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