Search - Woldemar Bargiel, Trio Parnassus :: Bargiel: Piano Trios Vol. 1

Hidden Treasures

bibliomane01 | 07/06/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Caught in the musical wars of the 19th Century between the New German School of Wagner and Liszt on one side and the traditionalists of the Leipzig Conservatory led by Brahms and Joachim on the other, Woldemar Bargiel (1828-1897) pleased neither side and was castigated by the critics of his time. History has not yet seen fit to reverse this injustice, but hopefully the emergence of new recordings of his works are a sign of greater recognition to come. These two piano trios are delightful evocations of the Romantic spirit, tuneful in the manner of Schubert and complex enough in construction to repay frequent listening. The Op. 37 trio in particular is really exciting, with the Trio Parnassus in great form. The recording on the audiophile MDG Gold label is impeccable. Thanks to Evan Wilson for spotting this disc and writing the first review."

Delightful Romantic trios

Evan Wilson | Cambridge, Massachusetts United States | 01/03/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Woldemar Bargiel is one of those composers who worked in the shadow of Schumann and Brahms and as a result is considered unoriginal and "second-rate." It's sad how musical "politics" of this type relegates wonderful music like these trios to the dustbins of history.Written in 1857 and 1870 respectively, these two trios do not break formal ground but that is about the only bad thing you can say about them. They are tuneful, well put together and have a real feel for the possibilities of the medium. If you like the music of Bruch or, perhaps, Dvorak (without the Czech accent) you'll love these. The Trio Parnassus, which seems to be MDG's house trio, approach these pieces with respect for their high quality and musical worth and enjoy themselves throughout. They don't condescend to them or overplay them trying to sell them and both pieces bloom wonderfully. MDG's sound is up to their high standard.If you enjoy romantic chamber music, don't hestitate to get this. It may be off the beaten track, but it shouldn't be. Maybe this recording will encourage people to beat a new track. (One can only hope.)"