Album insights
Moszkowski, born in Breslau in 1854, emerged as a prominent figure in the 19th century music scene, his piano compositions earning wide acclaim. Training first in Dresden and later in Berlin under renowned musicians, he made his mark with works like Spanish Dances and Serenata. The Spaniard became a sought-after composer and performer, known for his violin skills and signature compositions like the enchanting Violin Concerto, Op 30.
For two decades, Berlin served as Moszkowski's base for concerts across Europe, showcasing his talents not only as a pianist but also as a conductor. His fame led him to London, where he conducted and presented orchestral pieces before finally debuting as a pianist in 1898. His move to Paris in 1897 marked a new chapter, where he found love and fathered children, excelling as a revered instructor. Among his prodigious piano students, Josef Hofmann stood out as a remarkable talent.
Moszkowski's later years saw a gradual decline as his health wavered, and personal losses took a toll. Despite ongoing composition efforts, his once soaring popularity dwindled amidst evolving musical tastes. The maestro, distancing himself from contemporary trends, focused on his financial investments, which unfortunately plummeted with the outbreak of World War I in 1914. His final years in Paris were marked by financial hardship until a group of supportive friends in America organized a benefit concert in 1921, providing Moszkowski some relief in his waning days.
A stalwart composer, Moszkowski's legacy primarily rests on his diverse piano works, ranging from waltzes to studies and character pieces. Though adversity shadowed his later life, his music resonates with ingenuity and an intrinsic understanding of the piano's essence, captured delightfully in pieces like Albumblatt, Serenata, and the lively Tarantella. Noteworthy compositions like Rêverie, Expansion, and Poème de Mai highlight his nuanced musical evolution, displaying an unfading touch of brilliance in each note. Transcending trends and eras, Moszkowski's music endures, a timeless testament to his lasting impact on the classical repertoire.