Dohnányi’s Piano Works: A Comprehensive Introduction to Masterpieces by the Hungarian Prodigy

Three Pieces, Op. 23: No. 1 “Aria”Dohnányi Ernő

Takafumi Yasunami — E. v. Dohnányi: “Aria” from Three Pieces, Op. 23

The works of Ernő Dohnányi, the Hungarian composer who left a significant mark on the European music scene in the early 20th century, are known for their refined and distinctive musicality, influenced by Romanticism.

“Aria,” included in his Three Pieces published in 1913, combines lyrical beauty with virtuosic brilliance.

Demanding deep emotion and delicate expressiveness, this piece is a perfect showcase for advanced performers.

Its gently sung melody will resonate deeply with listeners.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the full richness of the piano’s sonority.

Four Rhapsodies, Op. 11: No. 1 in G minorDohnányi Ernő

Dohnányi – 4 Rhapsodies, op. 11 (Audio+Sheet) [Dohnányi]

Ernő Dohnányi, renowned as a Hungarian composer, pianist, and conductor, is considered a leading figure of late Romantic music and a foundational force in Hungarian music of the 20th century.

His Four Rhapsodies, Op.

11, are ambitious works that inherit Classical and Romantic forms while incorporating improvisatory elements.

No.

1 presents a succession of contrasting emotions and moods, emphasizing the pursuit of expression and virtuosity, and strongly reflects his creativity.

Though there are no lyrics, the passionate, technically demanding performance allows the listener to grasp the composer’s intent.

This piece, which requires a high level of technical skill, is one that pianists with both solid technique and rich musical sensitivity are strongly encouraged to take on.

Piano Quintet No. 1 in C minor, Op. 1Dohnányi Ernő

Ernst von Dohnányi – Klavierquintett Nr. 1 | WDR Sinfonieorchester

Ernő Dohnányi, known as a versatile composer, received high praise from Brahms for his first published work, the Piano Quintet No.

1 in C minor, Op.

1, which he wrote at the young age of eighteen.

While rooted in the traditions of Romantic music, the piece overflows with rich musicality and passion.

The first movement is an Allegro with the character of a dark march; the second is a scherzo full of humor; the third is an Adagio with a beautiful melody.

The fourth movement is a sonata-form rondo in an unusual 5/4 meter, which recalls the theme of the first movement in C major and brings the work to a joyous conclusion.

This is a highly recommended piece for those who want to fully savor a masterpiece among piano quintets.

Piano Quintet No. 2 in E-flat minor, Op. 26Dohnányi Ernő

Dohnanyi, Erno／Piano Quintet No.2,Mov.1 Allegro non troppo,Op.26

Among the piano quintets left by the Hungarian-born composer Ernő Dohnányi (born in 1877), the Piano Quintet No.

2, completed in 1914, is particularly refined.

Scored for piano and string quartet, the work is marked by a strict construction based on sonata form and a strong unity of thematic material.

Its deft use of chromatic elements also reinforces the work’s overall cohesion.

Composed at a turning point in Dohnányi’s life, the piece reflects nostalgia, yearning, and the beauty of hope and renewal.

While it shows the influence of Brahms and Schumann, it is rich in Dohnányi’s own expressive voice—a must-hear masterpiece for chamber music enthusiasts.

Piano Sextet in C major, Op. 37Dohnányi Ernő

Ernst von Dohnányi – Sextet Op. 37 (1935)

The Piano Sextet in C major, Op.

37, by the Hungarian composer Ernő Dohnányi is counted among his major chamber works.

Composed in 1935, it was created during a period when Dohnányi was bedridden for several months due to thrombosis.

Scored for piano, violin, viola, cello, clarinet, and horn, it is a fine work in which the eloquence of late Romanticism blends with a Brahmsian sense of classical form.

It opens with a passionate first movement, followed by a march-like second movement and a Mendelssohnian third movement, leading into a fourth movement that incorporates elements of jazz.

Using a cyclic thematic technique, material from the first movement returns, bringing the work to a brilliant close.

Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 5Dohnányi Ernő

Dohnanyi: Piano Concerto No.1 Op.5 / Shelley · Bamert · BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Ernő Dohnányi, born in Hungary in 1877, was a composer also known as the author of a piano technique method book.

His Piano Concerto No.

1 in E minor, Op.

5, written when he was 25, reflects strong late-Romantic influences while vividly showcasing his own musical voice.

With passionate orchestration and brilliant piano virtuosity woven together to striking effect, it is a dramatic work not to be missed.

Highly recommended for lovers of the Romantic era and for anyone wishing to savor the full appeal of the piano concerto.

Piano Concerto No. 2 in B minor, Op. 42Dohnányi Ernő

Dohnanyi: Piano Concerto No.2 Op.42 / Shelley · Bamert · BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

The Hungarian prodigy Ernő Dohnányi pursued composition energetically while also leading a multifaceted career as a conductor, pianist, and music educator.

His Piano Concerto No.

2 in B minor is a major work that embodies his late style.

The piano part is highly virtuosic, reflecting his own exceptional performance skills.

Throughout, the piece brims with passion and drama, leaving a powerful impression that overwhelms the listener.

A must-hear for anyone who wants to savor the full allure of late Romantic music!