Search - Johannes Brahms, Peter Serkin :: Brahms: The Violin Sonatas

Brahms's three sonatas have been recorded many times, but there is always room for another interpretation as interesting as this one. These two players are consummate masters of their instruments; their approach is highly personal, but thoughtful, genuinely felt, and respectful of the text, with meticulously observed dynamics and carefully shaped phrases. The collaboration is impeccable, though it seems based on an attraction of opposites. Pamela Frank's tone is strikingly beautiful, rich but not lush, and adaptable to all expressive demands without need for sentimental slides. Peter Serkin's playing is distinguished by its clarity of line and texture, enabling him to bring out hidden voices and melodies. Some of their interpretive choices may not be to everyone's taste, especially their tempi, some of which are extremely slow but remarkably well sustained; on the other hand, the third sonata's wistful third movement is restless and explosive, the Finale headlong in its impetuosity. The opening movement of the first sonata, too, is unusually brisk, and the liberties in the Finale are a bit excessive. The playing is most consistently convincing in the second sonata: beautifully simple, warm, lyrical, and poetic; every detail is caressed with loving attention. --Edith Eisler