Ferruccio Busoni (1866-1924) is best known for his interpretations of Bach. He was one of the greatest pianists of his time but was also active as a composer from an early age.
Busoni’s early music still sounds very romantic. Later, his music becomes more idiosyncratic and modernist. For example, Busoni’s music contains influences from Schoenberg, Stravinsky and folk music. A common thread in Busoni’s life was Bach. He was a great inspiration for his pieces. In addition, Busoni arranged many of Bach’s pieces for piano.
1. Bach-Busoni. Nun komm’ der Heiden Heiland.
Rian de Waal, piano.
2. Ferruccio Busoni. Berceuse élégiaque.
Schönberg Ensemble conducted by Reinbert de Leeuw.
3. Busoni. Elegy no. 3: ‘Meine Seele bangt und hofft zu Dir’.
Jeni Slotchiver, piano.
4. Busoni. Suite for orchestra “Turandot.
Argovia Philharmonic conducted by Douglas Bostock.
5. Busoni. Fantasia nach J.S. Bach.
Marc-André Hamelin, piano.
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