Search - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Bruno Giuranna, Beaux Arts Trio :: Mozart: Piano Quartets

More chamber masterpieces from Mozart

Alan Lekan | Boulder, CO | 06/13/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mozart wrote a plethera of fine chamber music in the galante style of the classical era: Quintets for various instruments, string quartets, string trios, string duos, piano trios, violin sonatas and the two magnificent piano quartets here. With these two quartets, Mozart more-or-less invented the genre which was later taken up by Schumann, Brahms and Dvorak. These piano quartets show Mozart in both a dramatic mode in the minor work and a typical merry mood in the major piece. But, even in the minor work, Mozart made sure things did not get too grave, working over a sprite and lyrical theme and ending in a postive (major key) mood as usual of Mozart. Mozart really had a gift for taking an unbelievably simple melody and developing it via sonata form into a work of art. You see that talent here.



The Beaux Art Trio (with added violist Bruno Giuranna) has a real nack for the melody-saturated compositions of Mozart and their meticulous readings here have a effortless, charming appeal. Mannahem Preseller's piano runs dance spontaneously in perfect rhythm and remind one of the perfect, bouncy legato that Mozart was famous for. The strings match this galante style and bring great vibrancy to this music. All this is easy to hear in the short music clips. In short, a highly rated recording from one of the great trios of all times and with excellent sound quality that should satisfy most a Mozart chamber fan. Recommended, as is just about any recording from the Beaux Arts Trio which are a safe bet for it being one of the top recordings available in spite of much fine competition)."

One of the very best Mozart recordings ever

N. W. Sutton | Connecticut | 11/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Beaux Arts Trio, with the addition of Bruno Giuranna on viola, offer this startlingly integrated, melodic and thoughtfully clear interpretation of two wonderful pieces. This recording shows how, when superb musicians tackle a great piece, their playing becomes transparent - they almost disappear, revealing the essence of the work itself.



On this recording, spirit, joy, and technical mastery come together to deliver a delicacy any listener - experienced or novice - can savor.

"

A Keeper

A. Sarkar | new york | 12/28/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Mozart quartet in G minor is a milestone in the history of chamber music. It's the first time that all four instruments (piano, violin, viola, cello) are given equal prominence in the composition. The first Allegro movement is dark, subdued and tense. The Beaux Arts trio gives this a classical treatment, repeating the theme twice. The second movement (Andante) is also beautiful, slightly sad and introspective. The playing is very fine in these first two movements. The third movement (Rondo) is again played well, although not quite up to the standards of the first two. I'd have preferred a more melodic, lighter touch.

In the E flat quartet, there's more good stuff. The first movement is delightful, with some nice melodies, and lots of repeats and variations. The second movement carries on the theme of phrase repetitions, providing several wistful moments. The final movement is pure Mozart, full of simplicity and childlike glee.

This is a must-have CD for a classical music library--indeed, for any music library."