Composer: Felix Mendelssohn
Works: Trio in D Minor Op. 49; Robert Schumann: Trio in D Minor Op. 63
Performers: Jacques Thibaud (violin), Pablo Casals (cello), Alfred Cortot (piano)
Recording: London 1927-28
Label: NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110185
Mendelssohn and Schumann stand as towering figures of the Romantic era, their chamber works embodying both a fervent lyricism and a structural integrity that has captivated audiences for generations. The present recording, featuring the legendary trio of Jacques Thibaud, Pablo Casals, and Alfred Cortot, offers a rare glimpse into the interpretive practices of the late 1920s, a time when these musicians were at the peak of their artistry. Mendelssohn’s Trio in D Minor Op. 49, with its vibrant interplay and lyrical expansiveness, is complemented by Schumann’s Trio in D Minor Op. 63, a work marked by its emotional depth and intricate counterpoint.
The performance of Mendelssohn’s Trio is particularly striking, with Thibaud’s violin weaving a delicate yet passionate line against Casals’ robust cello foundation. Their contrasting timbres—Thibaud’s light, agile tone juxtaposed with Casals’ rich, resonant voice—create a compelling dialogue. The opening movement’s exposition reveals this interplay vividly; Thibaud’s portamento is both expressive and nuanced, particularly at 5:10, where he spins a ravishingly beautiful melody, imbued with a sense of yearning. Cortot’s pianism deserves special mention, as his acute rhythmic accents and dynamic shading breathe life into the Andante, imbuing the ensemble with a spontaneous elegance that feels both fresh and timeless.
Schumann’s Trio, a more elusive work, presents a different challenge. Its opening movement unfolds slowly, allowing each musician to explore the emotional landscape with a profound depth. Here, the trio adopts a metrical freedom that enhances the work’s introspective quality. The blend of sonorities is exquisite; moments of hushed playing yield a mysterious atmosphere, particularly as they scale down their dynamics, revealing a meticulous attention to detail. The slow movement retains a broad, sustained quality, while the finale crackles with energy, showcasing the trio’s ability to navigate the intricate, con fuoco passages with a surging momentum that propels it toward a grand conclusion.
The engineering quality of this NAXOS release, remastered by Ward Marston, breathes new life into these historic recordings, allowing the listener to appreciate the clarity and warmth of the ensemble’s sound. The spatial balance between the instruments is well-maintained, with each musician’s voice distinctly audible, yet cohesively integrated. Tully Potter’s liner notes provide essential context, elucidating the historical significance of these recordings within the broader narrative of chamber music.
This recording stands as a vital testament to the interpretive depth and technical prowess of Thibaud, Casals, and Cortot. Their artistry not only illuminates the brilliance of Mendelssohn and Schumann’s compositions but also reflects the rich legacy of chamber music performance in the early 20th century. As a coupling, these trios resonate with a shared Romantic spirit, yet each work offers its own unique emotional journey. This release is not merely an archival document; it is a living expression of the music that continues to inspire and captivate. A must-have for collectors and a source of profound enjoyment for any classical music aficionado, this recording is a shining example of the enduring power of chamber music performance.
