Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven
Works: Piano Trio in B flat major, Op 97 ‘Archduke’; Piano Trio in B flat major, WoO 39; Piano Trio in E flat major, WoO 38; Piano Trio in E flat major, Hess 48
Performers: Wolfgang Schröder (violin), Michael Groß (cello), Chia Chou (piano)
Recording: 21-22 March 2001, Fürstliche Reitbahn, Bad Arolsen
Label: MDG
The fourth volume of MDG’s exploration of Beethoven’s complete piano trios offers a compelling synthesis of the composer’s stylistic evolution, juxtaposing the grandiosity of the ‘Archduke’ Trio with the brevity of his youthful sketches. This collection encapsulates Beethoven’s journey from the exuberance of his early years to the contemplative profundity of his later work, shedding light on his mastery in manipulating both form and emotional content. The ‘Archduke’ (Op. 97) stands as a monumental testament to his late-period genius, while the accompanying pieces serve as a vivid reminder of his early experimentation and pedagogical endeavors.
Trio Parnassus, comprising Wolfgang Schröder on violin, Michael Groß on cello, and Chia Chou on piano, deliver a performance that is both polished and insightful. Their interpretation of the ‘Archduke’ opens with a first movement that wisely avoids the dragging tempo often associated with this expansive work. Instead, the ensemble captures the relaxed cantabile character without diminishing the movement’s inherent tension. Notably, the pianist’s rubato into the second theme, while slightly mannered, adds a layer of expressiveness that contrasts with the more straightforward responses from the strings. The recapitulation, however, lacks the seamlessness that could elevate this moment into something transcendent, suggesting a missed opportunity for greater emotional resonance.
The Scherzo benefits from an energetic yet laid-back approach, aligning well with Beethoven’s rhythmic demands. This movement’s slippery chromatic transitions are handled adeptly, showcasing the group’s ability to navigate the complexities of Beethoven’s writing. Their interpretation of the slow movement, which eschews excessive languor in favor of a more measured pace, invites listeners to appreciate Beethoven’s nuanced phrasing. However, a greater emphasis on breathing at cadence points might have enhanced the music’s natural ebb and flow. The variations that follow reflect a clear understanding of character, with an increasing tempo that feels organic rather than forced.
The less frequently performed works in this volume, particularly WoO 39 and WoO 38, reveal Beethoven’s stylistic explorations during his formative years. WoO 39, intended for a young pupil, presents a charming simplicity, the straightforward dialogue between the instruments providing moments of delight despite its textural immaturity compared to the ‘Archduke.’ Conversely, WoO 38, a product of Beethoven’s Bonn years, brims with youthful exuberance, showcasing daring modulations that hint at the composer’s burgeoning genius. Hess 48, while a brief and somewhat unremarkable sketch, is nonetheless an intriguing listen, illustrating Beethoven’s early rhythmic ideas, though it pales in comparison to the surrounding masterpieces.
Recording quality merits particular mention, as MDG has achieved an exemplary balance of presence and clarity, allowing listeners to appreciate the nuanced interplay between the instruments. The close miking captures the musicians’ individual voices while still conveying the spaciousness of the acoustic environment, providing a rich auditory experience. The piano’s voicing is particularly noteworthy, offering a vibrant spectrum from sparkling highs to robust lows, complementing the strings beautifully.
Trio Parnassus’s performance, while not without minor interpretative inconsistencies, ultimately presents a thoughtful and engaging exploration of Beethoven’s piano trios. Their ability to illuminate the contrasting characteristics of each work speaks to their musicality and understanding of the repertoire. As a compilation, this volume not only highlights Beethoven’s evolution but also offers an enriching listening experience that resonates with both connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
