Alfred Brendel has for many years been among the world's greatest pianists; in concert, recital and on many best-selling recordings. Here, in his last CD release, recorded in the year of his retirement (2008), he gives his final public performances in solo recital and in concert - revealing a master musician in total command of his art.The booklet includes Brendel's own notes on the recital repertoire, and tributes from Sir Charles Mackerras and Prof. Dr. Clemens Hellberg of the Vienna Philharmonic - as well as a farewell statement from Alfred Brendel himself.
The CD set still presents Brendel the supreme artist. He probes and shapes his core repertory Mozart, Schubert, Beethoven, Haydn with enviable elegance and ease, and a heavenly lack of show. The Times, 13th November 2009 ****
Bach, J S:Chorale Prelude BWV659 'Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland'
(arr. Busoni)
Beethoven:Piano Sonata No. 13 in E flat major, Op. 27 No. 1 'Quasi una fantasia'
7 Bagatelles, Op. 33 - No.4 encore
Haydn:Variations (Fantasy) in F minor Hob XVII/6
Mozart:Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-flat major, K271 "Jeunehomme"
Wiener Philharmoniker, Sir Charles Mackerras
Piano Sonata No. 15 in F major, K533/494
Schubert:Piano Sonata No. 21 in B flat major, D960
Impromptu in G flat major, D899 No. 3
encore