Allegro in Am, op 144 / D.947 - Lebenstuerme (Hinson & Nelson)
Franz Schubert was one of the most prolific composers of ensemble piano music, and the Allegro in A Minor, Op. 144, demonstrates his mastery at writing for one piano, four hands. This large and passionate work was composed in 1828, the year of Schubert'sdeath. It is written in sonata-allegro form and may have been intended as the first movement of a sonata. It was first published by Anton Diabelli in 1840 with the title Lebensstrme: Characterischeres Allegro (Life's Storms: Characteristic Allegro). TheAllegro makes extensive use of chromaticism, Neapolitan sixth chords, and contrasts of moods. Also included is an outstanding CD recording from the Naxos label.