FRIEDRICH KUHLAU (1786–1832)
PIANO SONATAS, OP. 127 & OP. 8a
PIANO SONATINA, OP. 20, NO. 1
JENS LÜHR
‘I have a passion for Kuhlau's music as it inspires me to express myself within his subtle technicality. I have a special interest for this composer, who in my view is still not fully appreciated by the wider classical music audiences. I have travelled to various libraries in Copenhagen and Munich to research his piano works, and as I discovered more and more beautiful music and developed a passion for this composer, I hope others will come to enjoy the richness and musicality of his works through this recording.’ – Jens Lühr
Piano Sonatina in C major, Op. 20, No. 1: III. Rondo – Allegro
About this Recording
Friedrich Kuhlau was among the most important early Romantic composers in Denmark, becoming known as the ‘Danish Beethoven’ for his popular works for flute. The Piano Sonata, Op. 127 reveals a deep expressiveness reminiscent of Chopin’s Études, while the sophisticated Piano Sonata, Op. 8a shows Kuhlau’s contemplative, darker side before closing with typical virtuoso esprit. The charm and elegance of the Sonatina, Op. 21, No. 1 has delighted piano students for generations.
(formerly OP. 16) (1815, pub. 1833) (22:10)
(c. 1819, pub. 1820) (07:58)
TOTAL TIME: 56:55
Jens Lühr
Jens Lühr (b. 1968) was born in the same town as Friedrich Kuhlau, Uelzen, in northern Germany. He went on to study piano and piano teaching at the prestigious conservatories of music, in Hannover with the pianists Christa-Maria Hartmann and Bernd Goetzke, in Würzburg with Marta Janczewski-Sosinska, in Basle with Rudolf Buchbinder, as well as completing the concert pianist degree in Leipzig with Markus Tomas. During preparation for this recording, Lühr discovered numerous other, largely unknown piano compositions by Kuhlau. Lühr is known as a soloist and chamber musician, as well as being an interpreter of contemporary music, playing or taking part in several premieres. In 2012 and 2014 he won second prize at the International Music Competition of France (CMF) in the highest category for pianists.
Bjørn Erik Olsen
Recommended Recordings of 18th Century Piano Music
and elegant.’
– Fanfare
– Expedition Audio
