Czech composer Jan Ladislaw Dussek (1760-1812) was a pupil of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, and became one of the first piano virtuosos, traveling and playing concerts in many European countries. During his 10-year stay in London he developed, with the manufacturer Broadwood, the first 6-foot piano, extending its technical possibilities to a great extent.

Dussek’s piano works, rooted in CPE Bach’s Sturm und Drang style, look forward to the Romantic era in their use of Affetti, dramatic contrasts and gestures and an unheard-of virtuosity.

This new recording presents the 3 Piano Sonatas Op.35, dedicated to Muzio Clementi, and offering already glimpses of the young Beethoven (Pathetique!).

These are excellent performance played on a pianoforte by Naruhiko Kawaguchi, winner of the Rome Fortepiano International Competition.