Ries: Romantic Variations, Fantasies and a Rondo

Featuring

Michael Tsalka
Ferdinand Ries

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Composer Biography

Ferdinand Ries, the composer, was a pupil, friend, and secretary of Beethoven, and co-authored a collection of reminiscences about their relationship.

Compositional Technique

Ries's variations often open with simple, melodic themes followed by multiple sections of varying difficulty and contrasting expression, creating a cumulative dramatic effect similar to Mozart's variations.

Instruments

The fortepiano was constantly evolving during Ries's active period, with variations between countries and manufacturers, leading to the use of Viennese instrument reproductions for this recording due to their clarity and responsive action.

Historical Context

During Ries's time in London (1813-1824), square pianos by firms like Broadwood and Clementi became popular in middle-class homes, creating a demand for short, melodic, and technically accessible pieces.

Performer Biography

Michael Tsalka, the fortepiano performer, holds three degrees from Temple University, including a Master's in Chamber Music, a Master's in Harpsichord Performance, and a Doctorate in Piano Performance.

Critical Reception

A critic in The Harmonicon II (1824) described Ries's piano playing as "romantic wildness," distinguished by strong contrasts, liberal use of pedals, and bold modulations.

Instruments

Johann Schantz (1762-1826) was a respected Viennese fortepiano maker whose instruments were praised by Joseph Haydn and recommended by Beethoven for their beautiful treble and light touch.