Lasker

SOMM Recordings is thrilled to collaborate once again with the Tessa Uys and Ben Schoeman piano duo following their highly praised six-volume recording of the nine symphonies by Beethoven arranged for piano duet by Xaver Scharwenka—about which International Piano says, “These readings afford unmitigated pleasure … the articulation and voicing of the players persuades us into thinking we’re in the middle of an unleashed virtuoso orchestra.” Now, these award-winning South African-born artists present music for two pianos and piano duet from their adopted country, highlighting works by Gustav Holst and Edward Elgar.

SOMM Recordings is thrilled to collaborate once again with the Tessa Uys and Ben Schoeman piano duo following their highly praised six-volume recording of the nine symphonies by Beethoven arranged for piano duet by Xaver Scharwenka—about which International Piano says, “These readings afford unmitigated pleasure … the articulation and voicing of the players persuades us into thinking we’re in the middle of an unleashed virtuoso orchestra.” Now, these award-winning South African-born artists present music for two pianos and piano duet from their adopted country, highlighting works by Gustav Holst and Edward Elgar.

The French is a sound and resilient defence, which also provides abundant opportunities for counterplay. As a result it has been favoured by such great fighting players as Lasker, Botvinnik and Korchnoi. Current adherents include Short, Shirov, Morozevich and Khalifman. By playing 3 Nc3, White confronts the French head-on. The upshot is often a ferocious battle as Black tries to destroy or damage White's central pawn phalanx. Some of the variations, such as the notorious Winawer Poisoned Pawn, are among the sharpest in opening theory.

Best introduction in English to a great Japanese game.