COMPOSERS: Brahms
LABELS: EMI
WORKS: Violin Sonata No. 1; Violin Sonata No. 2; Horn Trio
PERFORMER: Adolph Busch (vln), Rudolph Serkin (pno), Aubrey Brain (horn)
CATALOGUE NO: RŽfŽrences CDH 7 64495 2
These are timeless performances. Busch and Serkin had been playing together for over a decade when they made these recordings, and the playing demonstrates the fine rapport that was the foundation of their highly successful partnership. Serkin’s unexcitable, objective accompaniments are a perfect foil for Busch’s intensely lyrical approach in the two sonatas. The Horn Trio, a justly famous recording featuring Dennis Brain’s father, Aubrey, has never been bettered on disc – not least in terms of the tricky balance between the instruments. The transfers are excellent and sonic limitations are quickly forgotten in the presence of such superlative musicianship. David Michaels
Brahms: Violin Sonata No. 1; Violin Sonata No. 2; Horn Trio
These are timeless performances. Busch and Serkin had been playing together for over a decade when they made these recordings, and the playing demonstrates the fine rapport that was the foundation of their highly successful partnership. Serkin’s unexcitable, objective accompaniments are a perfect foil for Busch’s intensely lyrical approach in the two sonatas. The Horn Trio, a justly famous recording featuring Dennis Brain’s father, Aubrey, has never been bettered on disc – not least in terms of the tricky balance between the instruments.
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:30 pm