Album insights
Born in 1752 in Rome, Muzio Clementi was a contemporary of Mozart, often compared to the renowned pianist and composer. After their famous piano "competition" in Vienna in 1781, where Mozart criticized Clementi's playing, Clementi's reputation suffered. However, in the 20th century, his image slowly improved, notably with Vladimir Horowitz's recordings of Clementi's sonatas in 1955. These recordings of his entire solo sonata repertoire further solidified Clementi's positive recognition.
The sonatas in this collection date back to the period following Clementi's journey through Europe in 1780–83, including encounters with Mozart and an extended stay in Lyon. In London, after his return, Clementi immersed himself in a routine of concerts and teaching, standing out as a skillful pianist. Despite a brief disappearance related to a personal matter in Lyon, Clementi's distinctive playing style left a lasting impression on his listeners.
Clementi's works in opus 13, notably the sixth sonata in F minor, reflect a darker emotional tone, embodying his experiences from 1783 to 1785. The following compositions demonstrate a blend of artistic ambition and the market's demand for piano music geared towards burgeoning amateur musicians in London during that era. These evolving works catered to a growing audience of piano enthusiasts, predominantly young women considering music as a societal advantage.
The middle period of Clementi's London compositions showcased a balance between his artistic aspirations and the audience's taste and skill levels, often appealing to amateur players. These sonatas varied in structure and technical demands, catering to the preferences of his target demographic. As his career evolved, Clementi delved into symphonic compositions, although his focus remained on creating pieces for the expanding group of piano enthusiasts in London, symbolizing a shift to meet the changing music landscape.