Schubert's sonatas are known by the numbers given by Otto Erich Deutsch (D numbers), which correspond to the chronological order of their compilation.
Interpretation
Michail Lifits, the pianist on this recording, chose 'very expansive, meditative tempi' for the first movement of Sonata D 894, making it seem even more extensive.
Composer Biography
Franz Schubert, the composer, had difficulty getting contracts and saw only a small number of his sonatas published late in his life, despite having composed many.
Critical Reception
Robert Schumann, a prominent Romantic composer and music critic, described the sonatas presented on this album as 'magnificent.'
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schubert's piano music, particularly his later sonatas, moved away from logical structural progression towards an 'emotional kaleidoscope,' with melody as his constant guide.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at Sendesaal Bremen, Germany, in June 2014, and features a Steinway & Sons D piano.
Compositional Technique
Schubert's sonatas began to question and 'demolish' the classical sonata form from within, even while retaining four movements and classical elements like the rondo or minuet.
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