Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No.9 is one of classical music’s all-time 'greatest hits'. It was composed and premiered in New York in 1893. On this recording, which also includes the first cycle of the equally popular Slavonic Dances, the Piano Duo Trenkner / Speidel once again demonstrates the great advantages and fascinating rhythmic verve offered by reductions for piano four hands.

Trimmed of the comfortable and sumptuous sound of the large orchestra, Dvořák’s genial treatment of motives of Bohemian folk character shines in even greater glory.

While Dvořák only later prepared the version of the Slavonic Dances for piano four hands, he produced the keyboard version of his Ninth Symphony at about the same time as its premiere. Since he repeatedly ranges quite far from the orchestral version, it does not involve a piano reduction in the usual sense.

The result, a genuine piece of music for piano duo, is in the best hands and an outstanding audio event on this SACD featuring the “Manfred Bürki” Steinway grand piano.