Schubert: Piano Sonatas D840, 850 / Wosner

Shai Wosner, piano

Franz Schubert
Piano Sonatas D840 & D850 / Six Geman Dances D820 / Hungarian Melody D817

o Shai Wosner's second release for ONYX after his critically acclaimed Brahms and Schoenberg debut disc (ONYX4055) of 2010. For his all Schubert programme Wosner has chosen two late sonatas. The monumental but unfinished two-movement torso D840, and the genial D850 written at a time in the composers life when he was without money, out of love, and involved with rows with his publishers. This work was one of the few sonatas to be published during his lifetime, and finally he earned 300 florins. Schumann described this sonata as 'impetuous, overflowing' It is one of Schubert's happiest works, in start contrast to the stark and monolithic D840. Reviews for ONYX4055
o 'This is an inventively conceived and impressive recording.' New York Times
o '...intense focus...muscular momentum to crystalline stasis in almost a heartbeat. A thoughtfully wrought, gently provocative recital'. BBC Radio 3 CD Review
o 'This is a genuinely imaginative pairing of two composers who have more in common than their popular images might suggest. The sequence works well, and Wosner's understated playing suits it perfectly.' The Guardian
o 'The last of Schoenberg's Six Pieces, composed in 1911, after he had attended Mahler's funeral - provides an extraordinary demonstration of the delicacy and subtlety of Wosner's artistry. In short, a fascinating disc, this is a pianist to watch.' International Piano Magazine

Price: $21.98