Composer: Ramzi
Works: Liszt: Six Lieder von Goethe; Beethoven: Sonata in C, Op. 53 (Waldstein); Sonata in F minor, Op. 57 (Appassionata)
Performers: Ramzi Yassa, piano
Recording: Recorded in the 1990s (DDD)
Label: Pavane ADW 7304
Ramzi Yassa emerges as a noteworthy figure in the classical music landscape, possessing the technical prowess and interpretative sensitivity that allow him to navigate the complex emotional landscapes of both Liszt and Beethoven. This recording juxtaposes two titans of the keyboard: Beethoven’s sonatas, which embody the tumultuous spirit of the early Romantic era, and Liszt’s lieder, which encapsulate the lyrical and poetic essence of the same period. The works selected for this album not only showcase Yassa’s virtuosity but also invite an exploration of the nuanced interplay between the composer’s intentions and the pianist’s interpretations.
The “Waldstein” Sonata, a hallmark of Beethoven’s piano oeuvre, presents a formidable challenge not just in its technical demands but also in its dramatic narrative. Yassa’s fingerwork in the first movement is indeed dazzling; however, while he exhibits exemplary control and precision, the interpretation could benefit from a more pronounced sense of “con brio.” The dynamic sforzandos, carefully articulated, shine through the texture, yet the fortissimo passages, particularly at crucial junctures such as bar 62, lack the visceral intensity that one might expect. His decision to repeat certain sections, such as the B flat modulation, is commendable and reveals a delicate touch that enhances the overall sound palette. The handling of the extended passages of broken chords, often criticized for their redundancy, is executed with a sense of purpose and expectation, showcasing Yassa’s ability to transform potentially tedious moments into reflective interludes.
Transitioning to the “Appassionata,” this sonata is a tempestuous journey through Beethoven’s emotional landscape. Yassa’s interpretation captures the essence of the work’s inherent struggle and passion. The opening minutes brim with agitation, and while his technical mastery remains evident, the emotional depth occasionally feels restrained. The intricate dialogues conveyed through the one-note passages are compelling, yet one yearns for a more visceral expression of Beethoven’s turmoil, especially in the moments of fury that punctuate the work. Yassa’s execution of the finale is a tour de force; here, the pianist’s dexterity and clarity of articulation are spellbinding, effectively encapsulating the frenetic energy that defines the movement.
The Liszt selections, specifically the “Six Lieder von Goethe,” serve as a beautiful complement to the Beethoven sonatas. Yassa’s interpretations of these lieder are imbued with sensitivity and lyrical finesse. The pianist successfully navigates the emotional nuances inherent in Liszt’s writing, demonstrating an understanding of the text’s poetic subtleties. Each phrase is caressed with a delicate touch, and the harmonic explorations are realized with a depth that is often elusive in performances of this repertoire. Yassa’s ability to balance the technical demands of Liszt with the interpretative nuances of text illustrates his stature as a pianist of considerable merit.
The sound quality of the recording is clear and well-engineered, allowing the listener to appreciate the full spectrum of Yassa’s tonal palette. The clarity of the piano’s resonance is particularly notable, enhancing the listener’s experience of both the thunderous dynamics and the more intimate passages throughout the sonatas and lieder.
This recording stands as a testament to Ramzi Yassa’s artistry, revealing both the challenges and triumphs of interpreting these monumental works. While there are moments where greater emotional intensity could elevate the performance, particularly in the Beethoven sonatas, Yassa’s technical prowess and interpretative insight present an engaging and thoughtful listening experience. As he continues to navigate the classical repertoire, one eagerly anticipates further recordings that might fully realize the emotional depths and complexities of the works he has chosen to champion.
