This is the second hybrid SACD of music by Robert Schumann from the highly talented young pianist Alessandra Ammara, and is devoted to the "Album for the Young" of 1848. The first, which came out last year and featured Carnaval and Davidsblündertänzes, was very well received by the press. MusicWeb International referred to the performance as “Eternally Fascinating and really rather special.”
Alessandra Ammara has drawn the attention of the musical world from a young age winning awards in major international piano competitions such as the "J. Iturbi" in Valencia and the "Van Cliburn" in Fort Worth. Her concert schedule is continuously growing, and she performs throughout Europe and America. Ammara's discography includes a recording for Canadian label Arktos of Debussy, Scriabin and Chopin and a contribution to the complete Chopin edition produced by Brilliant Classics. Since 2008 Alessandra has recorded for the German label Arts. Her first Arts CD, featuring Chopin's Four Ballades and other pieces, was released in autumn 2008, and was followed last year by the world premiere recording of Giacinto Scelsi's Preludes.
The Album for the Youth is a collection of pieces that Robert Schumann published in 1848 under the title Christmas Album. The origin of the work is closely linked to the composer’s family life and the deep love he felt for his children. In writing these pieces Schumann has therefore tried to enter the imagination of a child, and see the world through the eyes and innocence of childhood.
