Schubert: The Piano Trios

did you forget?

I had to return this CD because I wrote down the wrong D#? I'm sure it is lovely; great performers!
KK November 22, 2008

Three of the Best in Complete Harmony

The Schubert trios are wonderful pieces of chamber music, and very demanding. They require virtuoso skill and very close harmony among the players. Typically, the best recorded versions of chamber pieces are made by players who have played together for at least five years. Often the harmonious interaction of an experienced group makes up for what one or more of the players may lack in virtuosity.

In this recording, three famous virtuosos play with such harmony that it seems that they must have played together for at least a decade. Delightful.
August 9, 2008

Very fine indeed

Such a pity that Schubert did not write more than these two Piano Trios. His chamber works are the equal of any and he is very much in his element here.

So are Messrs Ashkenazy, Zuckerman and Harrell. Brilliant, sensitive and dynamic performances. Decca have done well too.

Another reviewer said "Schubert rocks!" - indeed he does, and perhaps more literally than the reviewer (and certainly Schubert!) suspected. The piano part of the andante con moto second movement of the E flat Trio, after a quiet and contemplative opening, unexpectedly jumps to repeated chords in 12/8 time. I defy anyone of a certain age not to conjure from this a mental picture of Jerry Lee Lewis pounding the ivories in some 'fifties rock and roll film. I mention this as I am quite unable to rid my mind of this disturbing vision and don't see why I should suffer alone . .

Great record. Buy it. January 1, 2008

Simply the best

This recording is the finest of I heard of Schubert's piano trios. As a huge fan of Schubert's piano trios, this recording is a MUST-HAVE. Other recordings tend to have a bit faster tempo, understandable considering the length of the piece, which often make the lyrical passages of Schubert overlooked. This recording has the best and most reasonable, IMO, tempos, and you can easily tell that these musicians deeply understand and enjoy playing the masterpieces. These three musicians' ensemble is also quite exceptional. Mature artists Ashkenazy, Zukerman, and underrated Harrell play these pieces with ease and by heart. Zukerman doesn't try to overshadow everyone, which often happens with violinists, and rather follows the flow set by the piano, which is how piano trios should be done IMO. One of my favorite Cd's in my collection. Highly recommended. October 14, 2007

Those who criticize the sound quality ...

clearly have wax in their ears/speakers. Through a high fidelity system of any reasonable quality, these recordings sound warm, glorious, superb. And, of course, these compositions are performed in a manner that matches their quality. Among Schubert's best works, in my opinion.

Enjoy! December 25, 2004

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