Works for mandolin and piano

A surprising as well as a unique CD, this recital with works for mandolin and fortepiano! It is little known, for instance, that Beethoven wrote a number of pieces for this combination, three of which have been included here. The mandolin was rather a popular concert instrument in early 19th century Vienna, and there were some very talented players around at that time. For their recording, Richard Walz and Viviana Sofronitzki have used copies of original instruments which result in a surprising and beautiful blend.

USA born Richard Walz, who is also a talented violinist, is a leading expert as well as one of the very few performers on the authentic mandolin. Viviana Sofronitzki, daughter of a distinguished Russian pianist, is one of the great talents of the new generation of performers of early music on authentic instruments. As a duo they have performed these works in a great many festivals for ancient music in Europe, Canada and the USA.