August Klengel - Piano Concerto No.2 Op.29 (1823)

1. Allegro (0:00) 2. Adagio (14:28) 3. Rondo-Allegro (16:06) August Alexander Klengel (1783–1852) was a German pianist, organist, and composer whose career was defined by a bridge between the strict contrapuntal traditions of the Baroque and the expanding virtuosity of the Romantic era. Born in Dresden, he became a dedicated pupil of Muzio Clementi, accompanying the master on extensive travels across Europe, including a formative multi-year stay in Russia. Klengel eventually settled in his hometown of Dresden, where he served as the court organist. Known for his introverted and perfectionist nature, he earned the nickname "Kanons-Klengel" due to his obsession with complex musical puzzles and canons. His most ambitious project, Les Avant-coureurs, a monumental set of 48 canons and fugues, was intended to mirror Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier, reflecting a lifelong commitment to technical mastery over public acclaim.