Presents
Peter Heise
Two Fantasy Pieces for Cello & Piano
Peter Heise (1830-1879) was born in Copenhagen where he studied locally before attending the Leipzig Conservatory. Heise was of the generation for whom Mendelssohn and Schumann were the guiding lights. He was also influenced by his fellow countryman, Niels Gade. He did not find Wagner and the tonal ideas of the New German School to his taste. Upon his return to Copenhagen, he made a name for himself as a song writer although he composed in most genres. His opera Drot og Marsk (King & Marshall) was widely regarded the finest Danish opera of the 19th century.
Although his instrumental works are almost uniformly excellent, because of the tremendous popularity of his songs, they were overlooked. Among his chamber music works are 6 string quartets, a piano trio, a piano quintet, 3 cello sonatas, 3 violin sonatas and these fantasy pieces for cello and piano.
The Fantasy Pieces date from the 1860's and were written during a sojourn in Rome. The first, Agitato ed appassionato, as the title suggests, is agitated but also highly romantic. The second piece, Allegretto con espressione, is more lyrical and even a bit reflective.
Out of print for long periods and then often sold individually, we have reproduced both of them under one cover. They make excellent and impressive recital pieces.
Parts: $19.95
