Beethoven: Piano Trio in D, Op. 70/1 (Ghost); Piano Trio in E flat, Op. 70/2; Piano Trio in B flat, Op. 97 (Archduke); Variation on 'Ich bin der Schneider Kakadu'; Trio Movement in E flat

Performances of charismatic flair and refinement by the Solomon Trio, who are well served by John Rushby-Smith’s recordings. Beethoven’s Ghost Trio opens with an explosive unison frisson, sonorous and assertive, giving notice of great things to come. Early promise doesn’t disappoint, for the Solomons turn in a passionately erudite and arresting reading. Their account of the E flat Trio, Op. 70/2, is characterised by a leisurely indolence and amiability, a charming foil to the labyrinthine Ghost, but highest honours are reserved for a big-hearted reading of the Op.

Our rating

4

Published: January 20, 2012 at 3:06 pm

COMPOSERS: Beethoven
LABELS: Carlton IMP
WORKS: Piano Trio in D, Op. 70/1 (Ghost); Piano Trio in E flat, Op. 70/2; Piano Trio in B flat, Op. 97 (Archduke); Variation on ‘Ich bin der Schneider Kakadu’; Trio Movement in E flat
PERFORMER: Solomon Trio
CATALOGUE NO: Masters 30366 00107 DDD

Performances of charismatic flair and refinement by the Solomon Trio, who are well served by John Rushby-Smith’s recordings. Beethoven’s Ghost Trio opens with an explosive unison frisson, sonorous and assertive, giving notice of great things to come. Early promise doesn’t disappoint, for the Solomons turn in a passionately erudite and arresting reading. Their account of the E flat Trio, Op. 70/2, is characterised by a leisurely indolence and amiability, a charming foil to the labyrinthine Ghost, but highest honours are reserved for a big-hearted reading of the Op. 97 Archduke Trio, Beethoven’s mightiest essay in the genre. Notwithstanding patrician pronouncements during the opening Allegro moderato, nor the ‘unbuttoned’ ribaldry of their scherzo, the Solomon’s confessional empathy in the great Andante is especially moving. This self-commending two-disc set is completed by performances of the Kakadu Variations, and the capriciously slight Trio Movement in E flat. Demonic, dramatically charged and eventful offerings, all beautifully recorded. Evidence of life beyond the Beaux Arts Trio, and not to be missed! Michael Jameson

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