William Kindermann's authoritative recordings have now recently become available again and they demonstrate his empathy and understanding in the works from that master's later period. The Diabelli Variations confirm Beethoven's huge stature in the variation genre with an array of pianistic tricks and frolics being thrown at the listener.
The subtle inner workings between the music and hidden messages are brilliantly unraveled by Kindermann, who follows in the footsteps of Kempff and Schnabel in this, one of the most trying works in the pianist's repertoire. Kindermann's brilliant notes continue to demonstrate his vivid love for the work, which is always a favourite amongst soloists.
The reissue in Hyperion's budget price Helios range is all the more welcome.
Copyright © 2002, Gerald Fenech