Search - Schubert :: Piano Trio

Long version of long Schubert masterpiece

klavierspiel | TX, USA | 05/19/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Schubert's two Piano Trios do not lack for excellent representations on disc. The attractions of this 1995 recording of the second, longer work in E-flat major include good sound and exemplary playing from Edward Auer and Nathaniel Rosen, in an expansive interpretation with every repeat marked by Schubert taken. This, plus the inclusion of music cut by Schubert before the Trio's first publication, stretches the entire work out to marathon length, almost fifty-five minutes: too long, in fact, for the remaining performer, Arturo Delmoni. Although the violinist plays with sweet tone in the slow movement, there are too many inaccurately turned corners as far as his pitch is concerned for comfortable listening, especially in the lengthy finale, the movement in which cuts have been opened. With several superior recordings of the original version of this Trio now in release this version cannot be recommended as a first choice, despite its bargain price. In fairness it must be said that the other Schubert work, the little Sonatina in G minor, is charmingly played, Delmoni being less taxed technically here than in the Trio."