Paul Lewis, the pianist on this recording, is a Doctor Honoris Causa of the University of Southampton and was the first pianist to perform all Beethoven concertos in a single BBC Proms season.
Composition History
Schubert intended to dedicate his last sonatas to Johann Nepomuk Hummel, a celebrated contemporary composer, but they were published posthumously by Anton Diabelli with a dedication to Robert Schumann.
Historical Context
Schubert's works were rarely performed in public concerts in Vienna during his lifetime, instead being reserved for private gatherings among friends and patrons.
Critical Reception
During Schubert's time, his music was often criticized as too contemplative and had fallen out of public favor, overshadowed by more popular composers and dazzling virtuosos.
Critical Reception
The young Robert Schumann was a loyal advocate for Schubert's music, praising its ability to express the most delicate human feelings and thoughts.
Composer Biography
Schubert composed these late piano sonatas, along with many other works, in an almost superhuman creative frenzy during the summer of 1828, a period marked by health crises and professional disappointments.
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