Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Works: Piano Sonatas, Volume 2: Sonata in D major, K 284; Sonata in C major, K 309; Sonata in D major, K 311
Performers: Roberte Mamou (piano)
Recording: Rec. 1991, Ghent
Label: Pavane ADW 7247 [67.40]
The works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart continue to captivate audiences, not merely for their melodic charm but also for their intricate structural elegance. The three piano sonatas presented in this volume, recorded by Roberte Mamou, reflect the evolving artistry of a young Mozart, spanning the years 1774 to 1778. Each sonata encapsulates a unique phase of his compositional journey, providing a rich context for both performance and interpretation.
Mamou’s interpretation of the D major Sonata, K 284, composed when Mozart was just eighteen, captures the youthful exuberance and burgeoning complexity of the composer’s style. This sonata is particularly notable for its expansive finale, which unfolds over nineteen minutes in variation form. The challenge of maintaining structural tension in such a lengthy movement is significant. While Mamou navigates this terrain with commendable skill, the performance occasionally lacks the dynamic contrast that might heighten the listener’s engagement. A more varied approach to phrasing and articulation could have accentuated the thematic development, revealing the underlying drama of Mozart’s early maturity. The engineering of the recording itself is clear and present, allowing for the nuances of Mamou’s nuanced touch to shine through, although one wishes for slightly more vibrancy in the acoustic space.
Conversely, the C major Sonata, K 309, emerges as the highlight of this collection. Composed during a pivotal moment in Mozart’s life, this work is marked by its lyrical beauty and balanced architecture. The Andante is particularly striking, revealing Mamou’s capacity for expressive phrasing and sensitive touch. The finale, an Allegretto grazioso, features a series of technically demanding passages that Mamou executes with both precision and grace. Here, the pianist’s interpretative choices shine, as she imbues the music with a flowing momentum that feels both natural and unforced. The recording captures the clarity of her articulation, allowing the intricate scales to resonate without losing their subtlety, a quality that is essential for conveying the playful spirit of the movement.
The D major Sonata, K 311, rounds out the disc effectively, maintaining the high standard established by its predecessor. Mamou’s performance showcases her ability to balance technical proficiency with a deep understanding of the music’s character. The interplay between the movements is handled deftly, with a keen sense of pacing that enhances the sonata’s overall coherence. The engineering remains consistent, highlighting the clarity of each note and the warmth of the piano sound, which serves this repertoire well.
Roberte Mamou’s recordings of Mozart’s sonatas are a welcome addition to the catalog, marked by a thoughtful approach and musical sensitivity. While some interpretative choices in K 284 might invite deeper exploration, the overall artistry displayed in K 309 and K 311 compensates handsomely. In the realm of Mozart interpretations, Mamou’s work stands out as both reflective and engaging, offering fresh insights into these timeless compositions.
