Brahms's concerti, symphonies and other large works are deservedly popular. I suspect, however, that these were heavily influenced by a neo-Beethovenian messianic mantle thrust upon him by the nineteenth century German musical establishment. I wonder if the "real" Brahms is to not be found in his smaller scale works of which these Trios are excellent examples.
Whilst his chamber music obviously comes from the same pen as the larger works, the "essence" of Brahms seems more tangible and transparent in the violin Sonatas, Trios and Quartets; this transparency providing a more youthful and seemingly less serious character to his music although the writing, of course, is taken no less seriously here than elsewhere in Brahms's compositions.
Why the Beaux Arts Trio and Arthur Grumiaux enjoy their high reputations is evident from listening to this fine pair of CDs. The wind soloists also are of excellent calibre so in all, these performances are very satisfying and an essential part of a Brahms collection although I would not swap them for the Katchen/Suk/Starker Trios which, whilst different, are no less good.
Much recommended.
February 29, 2008 |  | Beaux Arts = Satisfaction Guaranteed |  |
It's nice to be able to pick up any recording by an artist and know without listening to it first that it's going to be good. This Brahms is another example of the solid consistency of the Beaux Arts Trio. Sure, there may be slightly better recordings out there, but this Trio is always right there near the top, and in some cases have the definitive version. The same could be said of Arthur Grumiaux, an under-rated violinist, whose performances are always technically flawless. Easily recommended.
January 28, 2008 | | Correction to review concerning the versions of the op. 8 trio | |
Christopher Smith is in error in saying that the Borodin Trio's performance of Brahms's B Major Piano Trio, on Chandos CHAN 8334/5, is the original version. The Borodin Trio recorded only the revised version (unless they made a second recording I'm unaware of). So far as I can tell from the Amazon Web listings and old Penguin Guides, the original version has been recorded by the following groups: Odeon Trio, Trio Opus 8, Altenberg Trio, and Parnassus Trio. The last two groups recorded both versions. Apart from listening, one can tell from the movement designations which version one is dealing with. For instance, the first movement was originally allegro con moto and was revised to allegro con brio, and the third movement was changed from adagio non troppo to adagio. Also, I think you will find that the "great chunks" Brahms removed in his revision are from the first and third movements, not the second (scherzo) movement. Incidentally, I would have preferred not to rate this recording, as my purpose is only to make a correction and the Beaux Arts Trio recording I have is another version with a different violinist, but Amazon's system would not let me do so without including a rating, so I have provided a rating that corresponds to the average of the other ratings.
June 9, 2006| | | Excellent buy, whether "budget" or not | |
The three trios on the "B" CD especiall show the emotional depth of Brahms later life chamber music. The Clarinet Trio is well rendered with a supple, yet reserved, but not austere, style.
February 2, 2006This set is a treat for any Brahms lover. Excellent performance, elegance, depth and profound understanding. True Brahms !!!
November 3, 2004More reviews at Amazon.com ...
(9 reviews)