Mozart and the Pianist

Book excerpt: This book examines the challenges and delights of Mozart's solo piano works. All the sonatas, fantasies, rondi, as well as the most important variation sets and assorted pieces, are included. No other publication deals with this repertoire in such detail. The author guides us through each composition addressing their specific aspects and problems, offering practical advice and interesting alternatives as well as historical background and formal analysis when relevant to interpretation. Clear references to the numbered bars discuss text interpretation, emotion, association, dynamics, articulation, phrasing, tempo, rhythm, pedalling and technical problems. Renditions of all notated ornaments and possibilities for improvised ornaments are given in separate sections, as well as listening suggestions.