Search - Franz Schubert, Mozartean Players :: Schubert: Piano Trio No. 1, Nocturne, Sonatensatz

Steven Lubin's Mozartean Players haven't been a prolific recording group, but its discs are usually treasures. This one certainly is: a gorgeous period instrument performance of one of Schubert's greatest masterpieces, played in a style that demonstrates convincingly why period instruments can be such an asset in appreciating Schubert's music. The way Schubert's phrases emerge from these soft-toned instruments sounds completely natural, and their balance is clear and realistic without any player having to force his tone to be heard. With relaxed tempos and all indicated repeats taken, the Trio lasts more than 40 minutes, not a second too long for this glorious music. The early Sonatensatz (D. 28), although it has moments of interest, is usually included in trio recordings just for the sake of completeness. But the beautiful Nocturne (D. 897), probably a rejected movement from one of the composer's Trios, is an example of prime Schubert. The disappearance of this disc from the catalogs was a sad event; its restoration at such a low price is a renewed opportunity that clever collectors shouldn't miss. --Leslie Gerber