Composer: Paul Juon
Works: Rhapsody No. 1 for piano quartet; Trio – Miniatures for violin, cello and piano; Arioso and Berceuse for violin and piano; Romance for viola and piano; Märchen for cello and piano
Performers: Kammermusik Ensemble Chamäleon
Recording: Radio Studio Zürich, 5 March, 3 April, 2 May 1995
Label: GALLO CD-876
Paul Juon, a composer whose career straddled the late Romantic and early modern periods, has often been overshadowed by his contemporaries. Born in 1872 in Russia to a family of Swiss descent, Juon’s music reflects a rich synthesis of influences, blending Germanic traditions with Slavic colorings. The present recording showcases several of his chamber works, including the Rhapsody No. 1 for piano quartet, which stands out as a vibrant and expressive piece that encapsulates Juon’s lyrical style and harmonic inventiveness.
The Rhapsody No. 1 unfolds with a captivating interplay between the instruments, revealing Juon’s adeptness at creating a cohesive dialogue. The performers of the Kammermusik Ensemble Chamäleon bring a palpable energy to the work, particularly in the opening Allegro, where the piano’s rhythmic drive is met with the strings’ lush counterpoint. The ensemble’s interpretive choices—especially their nuanced dynamic contrasts—enhance the work’s emotional depth. The second movement, marked Andante, showcases a haunting melody that is beautifully rendered by the violin, with the cello providing a warm, resonant foundation that supports its soaring line.
The technical execution of the ensemble is commendable, with each player displaying a commendable command of their instrument. The pianist navigates the intricate passages with both precision and flair, while the strings exhibit a blend of warmth and clarity. The recording quality further enhances this performance, capturing the subtle interplay of timbres with remarkable fidelity. The acoustic of Radio Studio Zürich offers a balanced soundstage, allowing for the intricate textures of Juon’s writing to emerge without sacrificing detail.
When compared to other notable recordings of Juon’s works, this performance holds its own with a freshness that is sometimes missing in more traditional interpretations. The ensemble’s willingness to explore the emotional landscape of each piece—especially in the Charmingly whimsical Trio – Miniatures—adds an engaging layer that invites repeated listening. The inclusion of the Arioso and Berceuse and the Romance for viola and piano showcases Juon’s ability to evoke deep sentiment through simplicity, a quality that is deftly communicated by the musicians.
This recording serves as an insightful introduction to Juon’s chamber music, revealing the composer’s nuanced voice and rich harmonic language. The Kammermusik Ensemble Chamäleon delivers a performance that is both technically proficient and artistically vibrant, making this release a significant addition to the discography of an often underappreciated composer. Juon’s works deserve a broader audience, and this recording is an excellent vehicle for that purpose, illuminating the enduring beauty of his music.