Album insights
Hans Pfitzner, a passionate nationalist composer, was born in Moscow on May 5, 1869, where his father served as an orchestra violinist. The family moved to Frankfurt when Hans was young, and he considered the city his hometown. Pfitzner studied piano with James Kwast and composition with Iwan Knorr at the Hoch'schen Conservatory in Frankfurt. His exposure to various composers influenced his work, leading to his creation of operatic masterpieces like "Palestrina."
Pfitzner was a prolific composer, noted for writing three cello concertos over his career. His early work in A minor, composed in 1888, showcased youthful energy and brilliant virtuosity. Despite initial setbacks, the piece was eventually performed in 1977. Later in his career, Pfitzner's melodically rich "Cello Concerto in G major" was crafted with precision and organic composition, dedicated to the renowned cellist Gaspar Cassadó in 1935.
Pfitzner's dedication to composition extended beyond cello concertos, as evidenced by his "Duo for Violin, Cello, and Small Orchestra" in 1937. This single-movement piece showcases a blend of seriousness and dialogues between the soloists in distinct sections. While not reaching the heights of his cello concertos, the work retains captivating moments.