Schubert, Franz - Piano Duets - Lewis, Paul / Osborne, Steven

Paul Lewis, piano

Steven Osborne, piano

Schubert is unusual and even unique among composers in that some of his greatest works were written for piano duet. He composed as many duets as he did solo piano pieces, achieving emotional depths that take this repertoire far beyond its domestic roots. The most celebrated of these pieces, Fantasia in F minor, with its stark but heartrending opening melody and dramatic double fugue, is one of the greatest piano achievements of the early 19th century. The other works on this recording are much less well known but equally fascinating.

Who better to record these works than two of the brightest stars in the British piano scene, Paul Lewis and Steven Osborne? In addition to their individual achievements, they also share a long-standing friendship and performing relationship, which is reflected in their brilliant performances on this magnificent album.