Radu Lupu: Schubert Impromptus D899 & D935 – Decca Legends Edition CD

Product Details

• UPC: 028946097526
• Product Type: Music CD
• Brand: Decca / Universal Music Company
• MPN: 460 975-2
• Artist: Radu Lupu
• Composer: Franz Schubert (1797–1828)
• Instrument: Piano
• Genre: Classical
• Style: Romantic, Solo Piano
• Series: Decca Legends (1982 Performances)
• Release Year: 1999 (Remastered Edition)
• Country of Manufacture: Germany

Overview

Immerse yourself in the poetic world of Franz Schubert with this definitive recording by Radu Lupu, featured in the prestigious "Decca Legends" series. Recorded in June 1982 at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Hamburg, this album captures Lupu at the height of his interpretive powers. Known for his "singing" tone and profound introspection, Lupu’s rendition of the Impromptus (D899 and D935) is widely regarded as a benchmark in the classical catalog.

Gramophone magazine praised this recording, noting that "Radu Lupu brings to all eight pieces insights all his own... could scarcely be lovelier in phrasing and tone." Remastered at 96kHz in 24-bit super digital stereo, this CD offers audiophile-grade sound quality that preserves the warmth and dynamic range of the original performance.

Product Features

• High-Fidelity Audio: Remastered at 96kHz 24-bit super digital transfer for superior sound clarity.
• Total Runtime: 66 minutes 40 seconds.
• Recording Era: Recorded in June 1982, capturing the "Golden Age" of Decca's engineering.
• Production Team: Produced by Michael Haas with recording engineer Simon Eadon.
• Booklet: Includes a detailed brochure with rare photos and technical recording information.
• Format: Digital Stereo (DDD).

Interesting Facts

• The "Painter" of the Piano: Radu Lupu is often celebrated not just as a pianist but as a "painter" of tonal colors. His refusal to grant interviews created an aura of mystery, placing the entire focus of his legacy on his recorded output.
• Schubert's Lyricism: The Impromptus were composed in 1827, just a year before Schubert's untimely death. They bridge the gap between structured sonatas and free-form lyrical fantasies, requiring a pianist who can balance architectural rigor with deep emotion—a specific strength of Lupu.
• A "Legendary" Transfer: The Decca Legends series was launched to celebrate the label's history of technical excellence. This disc uses original master tapes and cutting-edge technology to reduce noise and enhance the presence of the piano, making it sound as if the listener is in the hall with Lupu.

Track Listing 

Four Impromptus, D899 (Op. 90)

1. No. 1 in C Minor: Allegro molto moderato
2. No. 2 in E-Flat Major: Allegro
3. No. 3 in G-Flat Major: Andante
4. No. 4 in A-Flat Major: Allegretto

Four Impromptus, D935 (Op. 142)

1. No. 1 in F Minor: Allegro moderato
2. No. 2 in A-Flat Major: Allegretto
3. No. 3 in B-Flat Major: Theme (Andante) with Variations
4. No. 4 in F Minor: Allegro scherzando

Publishers

• Label: Decca Record Company Limited, London
• Copyright: ℗ 1983, © 1999 The Decca Record Company Limited

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