COMPOSERS: Mozart/Beethoven
LABELS: Philips
WORKS: Piano Sonata No. 11 in A K331; Nine Variations on a Minuet by Duport, K573; Piano Sonata No. 12 in A flat, Op. 26; Six Variations in F, Op. 34
PERFORMER: Alfred Brendel (piano)
CATALOGUE NO: 438 306-2 ADD (1975-90)
This music is central to Brendel’s repertoire and the programme is well planned with each composer represented by a set of variations and a sonata with variations in the first movement. Brendel’s artistry is apparent throughout but there is a slight lack of spontaneity, and his unhurried approach to the sonatas occasionally verges on the didactic. The alla turca finale of the Mozart is nicely buoyant, though, and the Philips sound is consistently well-rounded despite the wide spread of recording dates. David Michaels
Mozart/Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 11 in A K331; Nine Variations on a Minuet by Duport, K573; Piano Sonata No. 12 in A flat, Op. 26; Six Variations in F, Op. 34
This music is central to Brendel’s repertoire and the programme is well planned with each composer represented by a set of variations and a sonata with variations in the first movement. Brendel’s artistry is apparent throughout but there is a slight lack of spontaneity, and his unhurried approach to the sonatas occasionally verges on the didactic. The alla turca finale of the Mozart is nicely buoyant, though, and the Philips sound is consistently well-rounded despite the wide spread of recording dates. David Michaels
Our rating
4
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:35 pm