01. "Keyboard Sonata No. 107 in G major (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
02. "Keyboard Sonata No. 108 in E minor (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
03. "Keyboard Sonata No. 109 in A minor (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
04. "Keyboard Sonata No. 110 in D major (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
05. "Keyboard Sonata No. 111 in A flat major (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
06. "Keyboard Sonata No. 112 in C minor (Osuna Encarnacion Monastery manuscript)"
07. "Keyboard Sonata in D minor (Santa Clara Convent manuscript)"
08. "Keyboard Sonata in G major (Santa Clara Convent manuscript)"
09. "Keyboard Sonata No. 1 in A major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): I. Adagio"
10. "Keyboard Sonata No. 1 in A major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): II. Allegro"
11. "Keyboard Sonata No. 2 in C minor (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): I. Adagio"
12. "Keyboard Sonata No. 2 in C minor (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): II. Allegro"
13. "Keyboard Sonata No. 3 in D major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): I. Adagio"
14. "Keyboard Sonata No. 3 in D major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): II. Allegro"
15. "Keyboard Sonata No. 4 in C major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): I. Adagio"
16. "Keyboard Sonata No. 4 in C major (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): II. Allegro"
17. "Keyboard Sonata No. 5 in D minor (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): I. Adagio"
18. "Keyboard Sonata No. 5 in D minor (Montserrat Abbey Archive manuscript): II. Allegro"
Description:
Nephew of the zarzuela composer, Jose de Nebra, Manuel Blasco de Nebra wrote some 170 works of which only 26 keyboard sonatas and six pastorellas are known today.
"Klaviersonaten Vol.1" on CD presents an immersive journey into the expressive world of piano sonatas, interpreted by pianist Pedro Casals and released by the renowned classical label Naxos. On this first volume, Casals explores the full spectrum of the sonata form - from intimate, lyrical passages to dramatic, virtuosic eruptions - with a finely balanced touch and an ear for structural clarity. His playing combines transparent voicing, nuanced dynamic shading and a natural sense of phrasing that lets the music breathe while maintaining architectural coherence. The recording is engineered with a clear, natural piano sound that places the listener in an ideal seat in front of the instrument, allowing the detail of Casals' articulation and pedaling to be fully appreciated. This CD is well suited both to seasoned collectors of piano music and to listeners who want to deepen their understanding of the sonata repertoire through a thoughtful, well-shaped interpretation.
As a pianist, Pedro Casals focuses on core classical and early romantic repertoire, with particular attention to the sonata genre and its evolution. His work is characterized by stylistic sensitivity, respect for the score, and a desire to reveal the inner narrative of each piece rather than rely on superficial effect. In recital and studio projects, he emphasizes long-form cycles and thematically coherent programs, aiming to give audiences a broader perspective on composers' development over time. Rather than pursuing showmanship, Casals places musical substance at the center of his interpretations, which makes this "Klaviersonaten Vol.1" an especially rewarding listen for those who value depth and structural insight.
Naxos, the producer of this CD, is one of the most influential and widely distributed classical music labels in the world, known for offering a vast catalog at accessible prices without compromising on artistic standards. Since its founding, Naxos has built a reputation for documenting core repertoire alongside lesser-known works and composers, often presenting complete cycles that help listeners discover music beyond the standard canon. The label collaborates with a broad network of orchestras, ensembles and soloists from many countries, paying attention both to established artists and to emerging talents. With well-researched booklets, consistent production quality and a clear focus on educational value, Naxos has become an essential reference for libraries, conservatories and collectors seeking reliable and comprehensive recordings of classical music.
This CD edition of "Klaviersonaten Vol.1" benefits from Naxos's experience in careful programming and repertoire curation. The selection of sonatas is designed to offer contrast in mood and structure, highlighting different facets of the composer's language while maintaining a coherent overall arc. Combined with Naxos's high production standards and Pedro Casals's concentrated, text-oriented playing, this release stands as a thoughtful addition to any classical library, ideal for attentive listening at home as well as for study and comparison with other interpretations.