Credits:

Nicolas Horvath

Description:

This is a collection of works by Hermann, an Estonian composer active in the 19th century. He was skilled not only in music but also in linguistics, was known for compiling Estonia's first encyclopedia, and was respected as one of the leading representatives of the Estonian national movement of the time. However, despite his many choral works, he has not been well regarded as a composer, and his piano works in particular have been completely, if not entirely, neglected. This album contains all of Hermann's piano music. The beautiful melodies and charming compositions, which combine elements of Estonian folk songs, are somewhat reminiscent of Chopin and Grieg. Pianist Horvat, who specializes in contemporary works, gives an emotionally rich performance. Naxos Japan

Tracklisting:

1.Suve ohtu eha ajal (Summer Evening at Twilight), for piano
2.Tundline unistus (Emotional Dream), for piano
3.Des Lebens Kampf (The Combat of Life), for piano
4.Winter und Fruhling (Winter and Spring), for piano
5.Valse nationale des Esthoniens (National Waltz of the Estonians), for piano
6.Ausser Athem! (Out of Breath!), for piano
7.Air estonien varie et module (Varied and Modulated Estonian Tune), for piano
8.Die Losung des Ratsels (The Solution to the Puzzle), for piano
9.Estnische Volkslied (Estonian Folksong), for piano
10.Air d'ete (Song of Summer), for piano
11.Pulli Hansu pulmad (Funny Hans' Wedding), for piano
12.Eesti Waltz (Estonian Waltz), for piano
13.Alletamine ja sarve - ning torupilli lugu (Humming, Horn and Bagpipe Song), for piano
14.Pensees de vie (Thoughts of Life), for piano
15.Pensee musicale (Musical Thought), for piano
16.Marche de Fete (Festival March), for piano
17.Walzerstimmung (Waltz Mood), for piano
18.Andantino for piano in A major
19.Albumi leht (Album Leaf), for piano
20.Allegretto for piano in F major
21.Kadund kinnas (Lost Glove), for piano
22.Concert-Etude for piano in C major
23.Traurig und freudig (Sad and Happy), for piano
24.Per aspera ad astra
25.In hilaritate
26.Polca futura