Credits:

Beethoven (1770-1827)

Description:

Leon Fleischer (1928-) is an American-born pianist and conductor. Born in San Francisco, he began playing the piano at the age of four and made his debut at eight. He was taught by Artur Schnabel, and his talent grew exponentially. He made a name for himself at the age of 16. He performed with the New York Philharmonic, conducted by Pierre Montoux. From 1950 to 1958, he lived in Europe, where in 1952 he became the "first American ever" to win the Queen Elisabeth Competition. He gave numerous concerts and recordings. However, in 1965, a sudden illness (localized dystonia) struck him... He lost the use of two fingers of his right hand, and despite various attempts at treatment, he eventually decided to retire.For the next nearly 40 years, he pursued his musical career as a conductor, teacher, and "left-handed pianist. However, thanks to recent advances in treatment, he regained the freedom of his right hand again, and in 2004 he released another recording as a "two-handed pianist. Many people know him for his indomitable spirit, which has been highly acclaimed. The recordings on this first CD release are from 1957 and 1960, at the height of his career. The Beethoven is magnificent, and the Mozart lovely. The Beethoven also features the passionate playing of Cluytens, who backs him in the Beethoven. Naxos Japan

Tracklisting:

1.Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15 - I. Allegro con brio
2.Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15 - II. Largo
3.Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15 - III. Rondo: Allegro scherzando
4.Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K. 414 - I. Allegro
5.Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K. 414 - II. Andante
6.Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K. 414 - III. Rondeau: Allegretto