Our title 'Abschied von einem Freunde' is borrowed from a song of Schubert's, but in the context as we use it here it refers to the fact that the central composition of this disc is the Sonata D 960. This was the last musical composition from Schubert’s hand, composed during his last illness only a few months before his death in 1828. Tellingly, it was written for his most beloved instrument, the fortepiano, the 'friend' mentioned here, the instrument which was to remain of central importance to him as a musical vehicle during the entire span of his life. The fortepiano used in our recording could not be better suited to Schubert's compositions: a fortepiano built by the famed maker Tröndlin circa 1835. In exceptional and pristine original condition, this original instrument brings these works a freshness and delicacy of expression unparalleled among modern interpretations. A truly benchmark recording for any lover of Schubert's music.

Reviews
.... Jos van Immerseel is arguably the most successful pianist working in the historically informed field ..'no piano I have previously heard from this era has sounded even remotely as good as this', this is a disc well worth having regardless of any prejudices you may entertain regarding early pianos. The performance and recording are both excellent and for more than just enthusiasts.
Deryk Barker- Soundstage 1999

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