This new release faces very stiff competition. The fact that
these performances music have been broadcast suggests that a
welcome spontaneity rather than a studio patch-up.
Listening to the lovely Adagio in E flat major Notturno
which ends the second CD, one is immediately struck by the difference
in the timings between the praised Beaux Arts Trio’s 1996
Philips recording (12:58) and this one (8:18). Although Trio
Jean Paul achieve a nice balance between the sombre and the
playful, and the effect is lyrical enough, the pizzicato passages
sound weak and the repeats seem to have been omitted. The other
short work opening CD 1 - the D28, B flat major Trio - is delightful,
well-structured and resolute. It was composed when Schubert
was only 15 years old but clearly shows great promise. The Trio
Jean Paul delight in its lightly teasing musicality.
The two epic Trios - D 898 and D 929 - were composed some 15
years later and close to the end of Schubert’s life. There
is joy and affirmation of life in this music but there is, too,
a foretaste of the ending of things. The Trio Jean Paul realise
the essence of these feelings in performances that are warm
and humane. The gorgeous slow movements are nicely wrought.
The players are sensitive to the music and to ensemble. These
interpretations are finely nuanced. The beauty of the slow movements
is lovingly realised. Pianist, Eckhart Heiligers, is especially
telling in terms of technique and musical conversation.
This recording faces tremendous competition with many reissues
at bargain price. My own allegiance remains with the heartfelt
and insightful readings of the Beaux Arts Trio.
Grace Lace
Trio Jean Paul (Eckhart Heiligers (piano); Ulf Schneider (violin);
Martin Löhr (cello)) 