ARTUR SCHNABEL: THE RCA VICTOR RECORDINGS (2 CDS)

Sony Classical pays tribute to Artur Schnabel – one of the 20th century’s most influential pianists and musical thinkers. Artur Schnabel – The RCA Victor Recordings brings together all of the pianist’s sessions for RCA Victor, recorded within an intense two months of activity in 1942. Beethoven’s G major and “Emperor” Concertos with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (conducted by its long time music director Frederick Stock) first appeared on 78s. Two late Beethoven Sonatas, No. 30 in E major op. 109 and No. 32 in C minor op. 111 were issued for the first time in 1976, inviting comparisons alongside Schnabel’s much imitated early 1930s versions. Also from the 1942 sessions are the previously unpublished Schubert Impromptus D 899, a significant addition to Schnabel’s discography.

Beethoven:
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Op. 58
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, Op. 73 'Emperor'
Piano Sonata No. 30 in E major, Op. 109
Piano Sonata No. 32 in C minor, Op. 111

Schubert:
4 Impromptus, D899

Artur Schnabel (piano)