Duo Åstrand/Salo follow up their first instalment of sonatas by Friedrich Kuhlau with a selection of some of the composer’s most impressive works for violin and piano. Included is what some consider the first Danish violin sonata in the Romantic style, a work that glances towards the composer’s idol Beethoven but contains plenty of individual spice and allure. It is followed by sonatas in all but name, the Trois Duos brilliants from late in Kuhlau’s career. They are brilliant, as the title suggests – three varied, evocative snapshots of the great cosmopolitan of Denmark’s Golden Age.

The German composer Friedrich Kuhlau (1786-1832) fled to Denmark as a young man and with his strong cosmopolitan personality became a loner – and at the same time a key figure – in the Danish Golden Age. In 1813 Kuhlau was granted Danish citizenship and the honorary title of Royal Court Musician.

Kuhlau was a great admirer of Beethoven and he fought for new tones in Danish musical life.

The flute music and the National-Romantic works have until now overshadowed Kuhlau’s other production, including his works for violin and piano, which encompass sonatas of several sizes.

This release follows up Duo Åstrand/Salo’s acclaimed Volume 1 of Kuhlau’s Violin Sonatas (CD 8226082) from 2014.

Duo Åstrand/Salo:
- Christina Åstrand (violin)
- Per Salo (piano)