Johannes Brahms: Sonatas for Viola & Piano, Op. 120 (Nos. 1 & 2)

1. Sonata for Clarinet (or viola) & Piano No. 1 in F minor, Op. 120/1
Composed by Johannes Brahms
with Nicholas Angelich , Laurent Verney

2. Sonata for Clarinet (or viola) & Piano No. 2 in E flat major, Op. 120/2
Composed by Johannes Brahms
with Nicholas Angelich , Laurent Verney

Tracks:

Sonata No.1 In G Major Op.78: I.Vivace ma non troppo
Sonata No.1 In G Major Op.78: II. Adagio
Sonata No.1 In G Major Op.78: III. Allegro molto moderato
Sonata No.2 In A Major Op.100:: I. Allagro amabile
Sonata No.2 In A Major Op.100:: II. Andante tranquillo - Vivace - Andante - Vivace di pindante - Vivace
Sonata No.2 In A Major Op.100:: III. Allegretto grazioso (quasi Andante)
Sonata No.3 In D Minor, Op. 108: I. Allegro
Sonata No.3 In D Minor, Op. 108: II. Adagio
Sonata No.3 In D Minor, Op. 108: III.Un poco presto e con sentimento
Sonata No.3 In D Minor, Op. 108: IV. Presto agitato
F.A.E. Sonata WoO Post.2: III. Scherzo: Allegro - Trio: Pierato

Tracks:

Sonata No.1 In F Minor Op.120: I.Allegro appassionato
Sonata No.1 In F Minor Op.120: II. Andante un poco Adagio
Sonata No.1 In F Minor Op.120: III. Allegretto grazioso
Sonata No.1 In F Minor Op.120: IV. Vivace
Sonata No.2 In E Flat Major Op.120: I. Allegro amabile
Sonata No.2 In E Flat Major Op.120: II. Allegro appassionato - Sostenuto - Tempo I
Sonata No.2 In E Flat Major Op.120: III.Andante con moto - Allegro - Pinquillo

Customer Reviews:

A little harsh.......2006-11-25

I find Pinkas's tone a little harsh. He's almost scratchy at times. I'm using this C.D. for my own study of the Brahm's sonatas. As a violist, he does not have the tone that draws me to this instrument. Otherwise, its ok, and not a bad C.D. to have if your studying.

I love these works.......2006-11-09

The Brahms violin sonatas are among my favorite of his many excellent chamber works. There's a clean innocence about these pieces that makes them an absolute joy to listen to. They offer a great break after you've been wrapped up in big, heavy symphonies for awhile. Don't worry though, these pieces have plenty of depth should you choose to listen for that.

The most famous and recommended set of these works is EMI's 'great recordings of the century' which features Itzhak Perlman and Vladimir Ashkenazy. I've heard their version and it is indeed great but to be honest I like this set much better. The Perlman/Ashkenazy set was recorded in digital, but its early digital and I find the sound to be a little too bright and sharp for my tastes. I love the warm analogue sound that's featured on this set. The playing is also more subtle here which I also find to be an advantage in pieces this autumnal in nature. Finally, this set is only a couple of dollars more than the EMI, plus you get a second disc with a version of the somewhat rare viola sonata which is also excellent. Basically this is a must own if your a fan of the Master's chamber works.

Brahms treasures.......2002-12-17

I was especially delighted to discover the viola sonatas. They are a must-listen for any chamber music fan.

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.......2001-06-11

Chamber music is a tricky thing, particularly for musicians with a highly personal musical style. How do you share a composition with other player(s) without compromising what you want to do with the piece? In intrinsically balanced compositions, such as string quartets, the problem seems to be more manageable. In sonatas for instrument and piano, however, the issue is much more tangible. The challenge can be tackled in various ways: the Perlman/Ashkenazy approach is one of perfect matching of interpretaion, which leads to a very smooth and "clean" result. The Zukerman/Barenboim approach is more liberal. The phrasing of the two is not identical, Barenboim sometimes brings things "out" that Zukerman does not, etc. The end result is gritty (partly also because of the wonderful "earthliness" of Zukerman's tone) dramatic and highly poetic, not in a sweet way. This is a magical performance. It perhaps takes a little while to get used to this higly individual approach (I was very used to the Perlman/Ashkenazy couple, in particular in their stellar Beethoven set, so I had to adjust a little...) but what can I say - I became addicted...

this is THE BRAHMS VIOLIN SONATAS COLLECTION.......2001-03-25

If Franks and Serkin get a 5-star rating for their Brahms Violin Sonata performance, Zukerman and Barenboim get a 6-star! I own both cds and the Zukerman/Barenboim version is more solid in sound and rendered with more emotion than the Franks/Serkin version. Besides, with the Zukerman/Barenboim version you get more Brahms for your money. A no-brainer, a must for any Brahms collector !

Brahms: Sonatas for Clarinet & Piano, Op.120

Average customer rating:

I give this album 5 academy awards. Including best songs.
Unquestionably the finest recording of these sonatas!
I love this Brahms...
This is music?
Doesn't match Harold Wright...but then again, no one does...

Brahms: Sonatas for Clarinet & Piano, Op.120

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Ax, Stoltzman, Ma : Brahms, Beethoven, Mozart : Trios for Piano, Clarinet, Cello
Brahms, Weber : Clarinet Quintets
French Clarinet Art
Brahms: Clarinet Sonata In E Flat/Clarinet Sonata In F/Schumann: Fantasiestücke,Op.73
Brahms: Clarinet Sonatas Nos. 1 & 2; Beethoven: Clarinet Trio

ASIN: B000003EUX
Release Date: 1989-08-11

Tracks:

Sonata, Op. 120, No. 1 In F Minor: Allegro Appassionato
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 1 In F Minor: Andante Un Poco; Adagio
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 1 In F Minor: Allegretto Grazioso
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 1 In F Minor: Vivace
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 2 In E - Flat: Allegro Amabile
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 2 In E - Flat: Allegro Appassionato
Sonata, Op. 120, No. 2 In E - Flat: Andante Con Moro; Allegro

Amazon.com

Brahms originally conceived this music for clarinet, though he later adapted the pieces for viola. He was inspired by the artistic playing of clarinetist Richard Muhlfeld; he might well have felt the same way about Richard Stoltzman. Sometimes Stoltzman's playing can sound precious--save us all from his New Age recordings!--but here he plays like a great artist, floating the melodic lines up to heaven and never wimping out. In Richard Goode he has a pianist who is certainly an equal partner; strong, impulsive piano playing powers these performances. The disc's low price compensates for the short playing time. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

I give this album 5 academy awards. Including best songs........2006-03-26

First of all, what I really did is that I borrowed this album from the library. When I listened to the third movement of the sonata no. 1, I started to remember that my clarinet teacher played it to. How fashionable! I was amazed by the clarinet playing and the piano. I would like to thank Richard Stoltzman and Goode for making such a wonderful album.

Unquestionably the finest recording of these sonatas!.......2005-09-19

Pardon me, you clarinet-snobs, but your ignorance is baffling. You may not like this recording, but save your mindlessly-inherited "opinions" for others of your ilk. First of all, if you want to compare this record to Harold Wright, at least learn what it is you're talking about. Don't compare it to the uncomfortably out-of-tune SECOND recording that he did (with Peter Serkin). Compare it to the GREAT recording he made of these sonatas with Harris Goldsmith (you've never heard those, of course, because you're too busy with brand-names to have familiarized yourselves with history and unbiased quality). Then compare it to the Primrose/Firkusny record. Then listen to the many other beautiful renditions out there. Then give the guy his props for winning his first Grammy award for this record. (whether you ever realize it or not, these performances are sincere in an incomparable way).... Then realize that music is not anymore absolute than this review (or yours). For those of you who are intrigued -this is the first record of Stoltzman's to buy/listen-to. Check out Richard Goode's Brahms record while you're at it. Enjoy!

I love this Brahms..........2004-07-30

I have both the Harold Wright and Stoltzman CDs of the Brahms Sonatas, and I personally prefer Stoltzman's version (since I'm reviewing Stoltzman, I'll avoid comparison with Wright as much as I can).

Many complain that Stoltzman doesn't get the nuance of Brahms music and that he over-plays... Frankly I don't see it. His playing exudes passion and fury in the more passionate moments of the Sonatas (1st mov. of Sonata 1 and 3rd mov. of Sonata 2 in particular). In the more delicate work (such as Sonata 1, mov. 2), Stoltzman's style (though less subtle than some) is engaging.

The best way I can describe these recordings (and much of Stoltzman's work) is that when I hear him play, I become absorbed in the music. I might admit that there are a few spots where one could argue that his vibrato could be toned down or something else like this, but this minor issues fail to subtract from the overall engrossing experience of listening to his playing. Other players (such as Wright) may play in a more reserved, traditional manner, but I can't get lost in their playing. It usually just leaves me luke warm.

No one CD is perfect, and you could pick apart a passage here or there on any recording by any artist. However, as an overall experience, I don't think you'll hear a more passionate or engaging Brahms than this recording. Those who listen to this recording and spend the whole time nit-picking minor things are missing the big picture (and it's a beautiful one).

This is music?.......2004-03-05

Stoltzman never ceases to amaze me with his unending popularity, despite his obvious lack of musical taste and refinement. Yes, Brahms was essentially a "Romantic" composer, but that does not give license for a musician to step outside the bounds in which a piece should be interpreted. Brahms' two sonatas certainly don't need the "help" Stoltzman provided in his overzealous interpretations. A little refinement, a beautiful tone, and impeccable intonation are what this piece calls for -- nothing that could ever make it step outside the lines of beauty. With that in mind, allow me to echo the sentiments of a previous review in saying that Harold Wright is all of these, and yet, if you listen closely, you will hear that he does, in fact, use vibrato as a decoration to warm important notes in a phrase. As a clarinetist, I disagree that there is a quibble over Stoltzman's vibrato -- the fact of the matter is that generally in tasteful clarinet playing vibrato is used minimally if at all. Vibrato is for jazz. More informed people might say "What about Reginald Kell?" and to that I reply, if vibrato was considered pleasant, he wouldn't have been the only one to use it regularly.

Doesn't match Harold Wright...but then again, no one does..........2002-07-31

The Brahms clarinet sonatas were written near the end of Brahms' life, at the pinnacle of his musical achievement and experience. Ranging from styles of fiery passion to tranquil beauty, these works are considered masterpieces in the clarinet repertoire. Richard Stoltzman delivers a passionate performance of these pieces that is of course caught in furious debate...after all, this is Stoltzman we are talking about! With his highly controversial copious use of vibrato as well as extreme, exaggerated phrasing, Stoltzman has always been able to entertain his more casual audience while infuriating clarinetists and most musicians with his unorthodox style. As a clarinetist myself, I try my best to keep an open mind. Personally, I have mixed feelings about this recording; what Stoltzman does best here is create incredible passion and energy, especially in the Allegro appassionato (first movement) of the Sonata in F Minor. The movement reaches feverish heights with his passionate playing, heightened even more by Richard Goode's powerful performance. Naturally, tempo and intonation suffers somewhat and phrasing tends to be sloppy at times. The Vivace (fourth movement) is also done well with the same amount of intensity and driving energy all the way to the resounding, powerful ending. However, his overuse of vibrato is painfully obvious in the Allegro amabile (first movement) of the Sonata in E-flat Major. The beautiful, mellifluous theme of this movement is destroyed by the lack of clarity and the abandonment of the pure, resonant clarinet sound in favor of the less tasteful vibrating, thin sound; this is especially pronounced in the opening and the sotto voce sections. The same problem is present in the second movement of the Sonata in F Minor in which the delicate ornamentation and phrasing is lost in the overuse of vibrato and Stoltzman's rather bright, reedy tone. In the end though, this recording is worth picking up in order to hear an unorthodox interpretation of Brahms. However, people acutely aware of the clarinet's pure, sweet, and resonant sound will be disturbed by Stoltzman's playing and will not be satisfied by this recording.

If you are looking for the perfect recording of the Brahms Sonatas, you must pick up the recording of Harold Wright and Peter Serkin. Wright has the most gorgeous sound of any clarinetist; Stoltzman doesn't even come close to Wright in beauty of tone. Shifrin, Meyer, Drucker, Manasse, Neidich, Marcellus and other well-known clarinetists can not compete with Wright in terms of tone and delicate musical nuances; although they might rival him in technical brilliance and each of them certainly has their own musical ideas, none of them can never equal Wright in the most important aspect of clarinet playing (in my humble opinion): a gorgeous tone that is able to be shaped to convey sensitive musical nuances and ideas, which is something Wright is blessed with. Harold Wright's ravishing tone is something that needs to be experienced in order to be appreciated; he ranges from a dark, full, resonant sound in the Allegro appassionato and a sweet, beautiful, mellifluous sound in the Allegro amabile. As the music critic Richard Dryer said, "Harold Wright searched for the soul of the music through the soul of his instrument." All clarinetists, make sure you pick up a copy of his Brahms right away. Stoltzman may appeal to the more casual listener, but any true clarinetist will be able to appreciate Wright's gorgeous and sensitive interpretation of these masterpieces.

P.S. Yes, Harold Wright's Brahms is better than David Shifrin's Brahms; Wright's playing is more sensitive and evocative. Also, Shifrin's tone is too bright and thin and isn't resonant enough for my taste.

P.P.S. From now on, don't go around with the assumption that Stoltzman is the best clarinetist out there simply because of his fame and numerous recordings. As a true artist and a sensitive musician, Harold Wright is the finest clarinetist I've ever heard with the most beautiful tone I've ever heard. You have been educated...go forth with this knowledge.

Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano / Kashkashian, Levin
Average customer rating:

Wonderful Brahms

Fine performances from both artists

Kashkashian needs a more interesting accompanist

Musical and Clean... almost a perfect recording

The definitive recording

Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano / Kashkashian, Levin
Kim Kashkashian , and Robert Levin
Manufacturer: Ecm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Clarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Kashkashian, Kim | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
ECM Classical | ECM Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
ECM Jazz & World | ECM Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Romances & Elegies for Viola & Piano

Béla Bartók: Concerto for Viola & Orchestra / Peter Eötvös: Replica / György Kurtág: Movement for Viola & Orchestra - Kim Kashkashian

Six Cello Suites performed on viola

A Portrait of the Viola

Hindemith: Sonatas for viola/piano & viola alone

ASIN: B000025GJQ
Release Date: 2000-04-18

Tracks:

Sonate Nr.2 in Es-Dur: Allegro Amabile
Sonate Nr.2 in Es-Dur: Allegro Appasionato--Sostenuto--Tempo I
Sonate Nr.2 in Es-Dur: Andante Con mote--Allegro--Pinquillo
Sonate Nr. 1 In F-Moll: Allegro Appassionato--Sostenuto Ed Espr
Sonate Nr. 1 In F-Moll: Andante Un Poco Adagio
Sonate Nr. 1 In F-Moll: Allegretto Grazioso
Sonate Nr. 1 In F-Moll: Vivace

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Brahms.......2004-07-29

These pieces are major works in the clarinet repertoire, and (as a clarinetist) I bought this CD to compare how the pieces are handled by both instruments.

I was pleasantly surprised to hear how well Kashkashian plays these Sonatas. Her playing is clear and passionate. I agree with another poster that the piano player sounds a little bland at times. It isn't really enough of a distraction to be a problem though.

This CD is a must for anyone who knows and loves these pieces.

Fine performances from both artists.......2003-01-03

With all due respect, I have to voice my disagreement with reviewer John Grabowski's criticism of Robert Levin's performances on this recording. I find his playing quite spirited and assertive. In fact, I think he and Kashkashian work beautifully together. These are sensitive performances all around.

Kashkashian needs a more interesting accompanist.......2001-07-26

As in her recording for ECM of the Bartok Viola Concerto, Kim Kashkashian works wonders here. She plays with exquisite technique and expression. She is extremely well-recorded. Unfortunately she has an albatross around her neck in the form of Robert Levin. He is as dull and colorless as accompanists come, and his uninspired, perfunctory playing mars this entire release. One wonders what a more sensitive pianist might have brough to these works, but as it is, Levin is always in the background, playing each phrase dutifully and blandly. Worth owning if you love good viola playing (and if you're disappointed with the dearth of Viola recordings out there) but not if you love good *chamber music.*

Musical and Clean... almost a perfect recording.......2001-05-05

In this recording, Kim Kashkashian is at her finest. One of the most glorious things ever recorded (in my humble opinion) is track two of this CD. She pays due homage to the composers score, but isn't so strict that she couldn't call the piece her own. If you are just getting into the viola, and want to hear some fantastic music (or if you're going to be playing either of the Brahmses any time soon) buy this recording. Oh... the thing that makes it "almost a perfect recording" is that the piano seems a little too loud throughout. I could do with a little more viola.

The definitive recording.......2000-12-21

Ms. Kashkashian's recordings of these two great sonatas are in a word, gorgeous. If you are familiar with the viola, or are even just wondering what in the world a viola is, (perhaps a mis-spelled violin??) then these peices will be a valuable addition to your recording collection. This beautiful music can be enjoyed again and again, each listening revealing new colors that were un-noticed before. Very highly recomended.

Average customer rating:

A Viola Master In His Prime
Heartrending

William Primrose Collection Vol.2

Manufacturer: Doremi Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

William Primrose Collection, Vol.1
William Primrose Collection, Vol. 3
William Primrose Collection Vol. 4
Handel: Concerto in B/Walton: Viola Concerto/Williams: Flos Campi/Bach: Komm/Schubert: Litanei/Dvorak: Humoresque/Nev
The Early Recordings, Violin and Viola

ASIN: B00004KD3Q
Release Date: 2000-03-14

Tracks:

Son in f, Op.120 No.1: I. Allegro Appassionata - William Primrose/William Kapell
Son in f, Op.120 No.1: II. Andante Un Poco Adagio - William Primrose/William Kapell
Son in f, Op.120 No.1: III. Allegretto Grazioso - William Primrose/William Kapell
Son in f, Op.120 No.1: IV. Vivace - William Primrose/William Kapell
Son in E flat, Op.120 No.1: I. Allegro Amabile - William Primrose/Gerald Moore
Son in E flat, Op.120 No.1: II. Allegro Appassionato - William Primrose/Gerald Moore
Son in E flat, Op.120 No.1: III. Andante Con Moto - William Primrose/Gerald Moore
Son No.6 in A: I. Adagio Molto - William Primrose/Joseph Kahn
Son No.6 in A: III. Allegro Moderato - William Primrose/Joseph Kahn
Concert Hall Recordings: Armed Forces Radio Service: Caprice No.24 - William Primrose
Concert Hall Recordings: Armed Forces Radio Service: Policinelle - William Primrose
Concert Hall Recordings: Armed Forces Radio Service: I Dream Of Jeannie With The Light-Brown Hair - William Primrose
Concert Hall Recordings: Armed Forces Radio Service: Andante Cantabile Op.11 - William Primrose

Customer Reviews:

A Viola Master In His Prime.......2005-05-01

William Primrose (1904-1982) was arguably the greatest of all violists. These recordings demonstrate that his virtuosity went hand in hand with supreme musicianship. The major items here are the two Brahms Sonatas, originally written for clarinet but later arranged by the composer for viola and piano. #1 (recorded 1946) is with pianist William Kapell, while #2 (recorded 1937) is with Gerald Moore. The transfers here are superior to Pearl's (both sonatas) and RCA's Kapell Edition (#1 only). I prefer these bolder performances to Primrose's later accounts with Rudolf Firkusny (Angel).

In #1 the tragically short-lived Kapell is a superb partner in a reading that is more dynamic and dramatic than any other I've heard. The sound here is warm and full. Moore is a fine accompanist in #2, which suffers a bit from its older sound.

The Boccherini Sonata #6 (1939, with Joseph Kahn) is a lovely work, and it's performed with great sensitivity and noble tone. The four encore items (from wartime Armed forces radio broadcasts) are delightful: a dazzling Paganini Caprice, Kreisler's Policinelle, an arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Andante Cantabile, and a gorgeously schmalzy rendition of Foster's "I dream of Jeannie with the light-brown hair."

I'm keeping this CD and weeding my other versions.

Highly recommended.

Heartrending.......2004-03-27

As a player and passionate fan of the viola, I can personally say that these are the most gorgeous pieces for solo viola I've heard. Wiliam Primrose is the king of the viola- his instrument sings like only a viola can on these recordings. If you love the rich, mellow sound of a viola, or are wondering what on earth a viola is, I highly recommend this recording. Either way, you won't be disappointed.

Debussy, Janácek, Nielsen, Ravel, Schumann, Brahms: Violin & Viola Sonatas

Average customer rating:

Debussy, Janácek, Nielsen, Ravel, Schumann, Brahms: Violin & Viola Sonatas

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Bartók: Violin Sonatas
Bach: Cello Suites, Sonatas & Partitas for Solo Violin - Christian Tetzlaff & Ralph Kirshbaum (4 CD's)
Beethoven: Violin Concerto; Violin Romances
Brahms: Sonatas for Piano and Violin
Karol Szymanowski: Piano Sonata No. 3; Métopes; Masques

ASIN: B00005UVAT
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

I. Con Moto
II. Ballada : Con Moto
III. Allegretto
IV. Adagio
I. Allegro Vivo
II. Intermede: Fantasque Et Lager
III. Finale: Tres Anima
I. Allegretto
II. Blues: Moderato
III. Perpetuum Mobile: Allegro
I. Allegro Con Tiepidezza
II. Molto Adagio
III. Allegro Piacevole

Tracks:

I. Allegro Appassionato
II. Andante Un Poco Adagio
III. Allegretto Gazioso
IV. Vivace
I. Allegro Amabile
II. Allegro Appassionato
III. Andante Con Moto
I. Nicht Schnell
II. Lebhaft
III. Rasch
IV. Langsam, Mit Melancholischem Ausdruck

Brahms: Violin Sonatas; Viola Sonatas; Scherzo F.A.E.

Average customer rating:

Brahms: Violin Sonatas; Viola Sonatas; Scherzo F.A.E.

Manufacturer: Avie
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Mozart: The Five Violin Concertos; Sinfonia Concertante; Concertone
Paganini:24 Capricci

ASIN: B00078JZHY
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano, Op. 120; Schumann: Märchenbilder, Op. 113

Average customer rating:

Very nice

Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano, Op. 120; Schumann: Märchenbilder, Op. 113

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Schubert: Arpeggione Sonata, D821; Beethoven: Notturno, Op. 42
Pergolesi: Stabat Mater; Scarlatti: Stabat Mater
Hindemith: Sonatas for viola/piano & viola alone

ASIN: B000000AG3
Release Date: 1992-10-28

Tracks:

Sonata In E-Flat For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.2: I. Allegro amabile
Sonata In E-Flat For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.2: II. Allegro appassionato
Sonata In E-Flat For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.2: III. Andante con moto
Marchenbilder For Viola And Piano, Op.113: I. Nicht schnell
Marchenbilder For Viola And Piano, Op.113: II. Lebhaft
Marchenbilder For Viola And Piano, Op.113: III. Rasch
Marchenbilder For Viola And Piano, Op.113: IV. Langsam, mit melancholischem Ausdruck
Sonata In F Minor For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.1: I. Allegro appassionato
Sonata In F Minor For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.1: II. Andante un poco adagio
Sonata In F Minor For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.1: III. Allegretto grazioso
Sonata In F Minor For Viola And Piano, Op.120, No.1: IV. Vivace

Customer Reviews:

Very nice.......2007-05-02

Ms Imai couples a wonderful technique with very nice readings of these works. The Rasch from Märchenbilder is a great example of playing a piece fast enough to bring a sense of breathlessness to the listener, without being so fast that the sense is lost. I greatly enjoyed the entire album.

Brahms Viola Sonatas, Op. 120 & Schumann Märchenbilder, Op. 113

Average customer rating:

A great new release!
A delight for the souil !

Brahms Viola Sonatas, Op. 120 & Schumann Märchenbilder, Op. 113

Manufacturer: Ashmont
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Schubert "Arpeggione" Sonata & Beethoven Romances, Notturno; McCarty, viola/Amlin, piano
Six Cello Suites performed on viola
Twelve Fantasias performed on viola
Bach, Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, recorded on viola
Brahms: Sonatas for Viola and Piano / Kashkashian, Levin

ASIN: B000297UV6
Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

Brahms Sonata in F minor - Allegro appassionato
Brahms Sonata in F minor - Andante un poco adagio
Brahms Sonata in F minor - Allegretto grazioso
Brahms Sonata in F minor - Vivace
Brahms Sonata in E-flat major - Allegro amabile
Brahms Sonata in E-flat major - Allegro appassionato
Brahms Sonata in E-flat major - Andante con moto;Allegro
Schumann Mhenbilder - Nicht schnell
Schumann Mhenbilder - Lebhaft
Schumann Mhenbilder - Rasch
Schumann Mhenbilder - Langsam, mit melancholischem Ausdruck

Album Description

Works by Brahms and Schumann for viola and piano performed by Patricia McCarty and Martin Amlin.

Customer Reviews:

A great new release!.......2004-06-28

Patricia McCarty does it again. Her tone is rich and full of life in these classsic works. It is the viola at its best.

A delight for the souil !.......2004-06-14

Brahms and Schumann by McCarty and Amelin
occasion a pure musical joy.
With her lustrous sound, impeccable technique
and polychromatic expressivity, McCarty transports
the music lover through the wondrous beauties of
the scores performed.

Average customer rating:

A clarinetist reviews
Pretty Bland...
Best interpretation!
Interpretations Lacking in Depth

Brahms: Clarinet Sonatas and Trio

Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Brahms: Clarinet Quintet, Op.115, String Quartet, Op.51,2
Mozart: Clarinet Concerto - Symphony No. 25
Weber: Clarinet Works
Jonathan Cohler: The Clarinet Alone
French Portraits

ASIN: B00000J7VL
Release Date: 1999-05-18

Tracks:

Trio, Op.114: I. Allegro
Trio, Op.114: II. Adagio
Trio, Op.114: III. Andante Grazioso
Trio, Op.114: IV. Allegro
Son No.1 in f, Op.120, No.1: I. Allegro Appasssionato
Son No.1 in f, Op.120, No.1: II. Andante Un Poco Adagio
Son No.1 in f, Op.120, No.1: III. Allegretto Grazioso
Son No.1 in f, Op.120, No.1: IV. Vivace
Son No.2 in E flat, Op.120, No.2: I. Allegro Amabile
Son No.2 in E flat, Op.120, No.2: II. Allegro Appassionato
Son No.2 in E flat, Op.120, No.2: III. Andante Con Moto-Allegro

Customer Reviews:

A clarinetist reviews.......2005-03-25

Karl Leister is a clarinetist's clarinetist- and this is some of his best playing. His playing is not only a great example of the German clarinet sound but also the clarinet sound in general-a warm, dark, pure sound. Although Stoltzman is an innovator and a one-of-a-kind musician, Leister on the other hand is someone who exemplifies a "school" of clarinet playing- one that other people can follow and work with and produce their own unique sound within a certain framework (In no way would I elect Stoltzman as a representative of the "American" school of playing- most American clarinetists in fact do not sound like him). It is this reason why I would chose, as a clarinetist and musician, a Leister interpretation over a Stoltzman interpretation any day. For those who complain that this type of playing lacks emotion and passion I would say stick around and keep listening- your tastes may change!

Pretty Bland..........2004-09-05

Last time I checked, the "european style" (whatever that means... I don't believe there is a universal european style anymore than you could say that Harold Wright and Richard Stotlzman playing in the universal "american style") didn't constitue playing with little phrasing, expression, or emotion. And that, for the most part, is how Leister plays these Brahms. As a previous reviewer stated, his playing is technically superb, so you can't fault him for this. His versions just aren't that interesting. You can find a lot worse out there, but this CD isn't going to blow you away either.

The Trio is pretty well done, though it is stylistic pretty reserved as well. This is such a beautiful, well written composition however, that even a blander performance is still satisfying for me.

I personally recommend Stoltzman's Brahms and the Brahms Trio by Stoltzman/Ma/Ax. To again concur with another poster, Stoltzman's version of these three pieces are indeed the polar opposite of Leister's. I personally like to error on the side of too much passion rather than too little, so Stoltzman's is still my personal favorite.

All that being said, the CD isn't completely worthless. Leister's sound is flawless and very pleasing, and any clarinetist would certainly benefit from hearing his example. Also, many performers (at least those I've met) are intimidated by the "towering" works on the clarinet rep (the Brahms Sonatas certainly being two). If nothing else, Leister's playing might serve as a cautionary tale that less isn't always more... = )

Best interpretation!.......2001-08-26

No showy movements that are popular among American clarinettists. If you prefer Americanized Brahms, this disc is obviously not recommendable, but you like genuine Brahms in the European style, this is one of the best CDs which I have ever heard.

Interpretations Lacking in Depth.......2001-07-23

In Karl Leister we have the polar opposite of Richard Stoltzman. Stoltzman's phrasing is unenduringly cloying. Leister's will cure insomnia. Leister is an expert clarinetist. (How else could he have been first desk of the Berlin Philharmonic?) However, when he plays solo and chamber repertoire, he demonstrates little zest or imagination. The late works of Brahms call for a penetrating musicianship that is lacking in these interpretations.

Brahms: Complete String Quartets; Clarinet Sonatas

Average customer rating:

NATION SPEAKS TO NATION
Fine sound and solid playing

Brahms: Complete String Quartets; Clarinet Sonatas

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Brahms: The Complete Quintets
Brahms: Complete Trios
Brahms: Complete Piano Quartets
Mozart: Violin Concertos
Schumann: Complete Piano Trios

ASIN: B0000041N7
Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

String Quartet No. 1 In C Minor Op. 51 No. 1: Allegro
String Quartet No. 1 In C Minor Op. 51 No. 1: Romanze. Poco adagio
String Quartet No. 1 In C Minor Op. 51 No. 1: Allegretto molto moderato e comodo - Un poco piu animato
String Quartet No. 1 In C Minor Op. 51 No. 1: Allegro
String Quartet No. 3 In B Flat, Op. 67: Vivace
String Quartet No. 3 In B Flat, Op. 67: Andante
String Quartet No. 3 In B Flat, Op. 67: Agitato. Allegretto non troppo
String Quartet No. 3 In B Flat, Op. 67: Poco allegretto con variazioni - Doppio movimento

Tracks:

String Quartet No. 2 In A Minor, Op. 51 No. 2: Allegro non troppo
String Quartet No. 2 In A Minor, Op. 51 No. 2: Andante moderato
String Quartet No. 2 In A Minor, Op. 51 No. 2: Quasi minuetto, moderato - Allegretto vivace
String Quartet No. 2 In A Minor, Op. 51 No. 2: Finale. Allagro non assai - Piu vivace
Sonata for Clarinet And Piano No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1: Allegro appassionato
Sonata for Clarinet And Piano No. 1 In F Minor,Op. 120 No. 1: Andante un poco adagio
Sonata for Clarinet And Piano No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1: Allegretto grazioso
Sonata for Clarinet And Piano No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1: Vivace
Sonata For Clarinet And Piano No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 120 No. 2: Allegro amabile
Sonata For Clarinet And Piano No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 120 No. 2: Appassionato, ma non troppo allegro
Sonata For Clarinet And Piano No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 120 No. 2: Andante con moto
Sonata For Clarinet And Piano No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 120 No. 2: Allegro non troppo

Customer Reviews:

NATION SPEAKS TO NATION.......2006-03-19

Of all 19th century composers Brahms is the most German and the least Italian. This makes it all the more pleasant to be able to recommend this account of his string quartets by the Italian Quartet as warmly as I do. Nothing on this pair of discs at all, either in the quartets or in the clarinet sonatas, strikes me as being my own idea of 'wrong'. Indeed nothing strikes me as being less than very good, and the performance of the A minor quartet at least is one that I would call completely outstanding. The players seem to understand Brahms's idiom perfectly, the playing itself is top-notch, and the recording, while perhaps not to the most spectacular modern standard, is right in every respect that really matters, particularly as regards the fullness of the sound.

Tempi throughout are well chosen. I found this to be particularly true of the tricky third movement of the C minor quartet. In this movement I might have liked just a little more prominence to be given to the lower of the two simultaneous melodies, but that is only a personal taste of my own, and the lower melody should not be completely equal to the higher in any case. Much more important is that the Italians do the trio section of this movement to absolute perfection, with the peculiar twanging effect that I always like to hear in the accompaniment. The A minor comes near absolute perfection for me from start to finish. Both the first movement, and even more so the second, need to be kept moving as they are here, the instrumental tone is superb throughout, and the minuet (another tricky piece to bring off) is judged to a nicety. In the third movement of the B flat the viola melody again is fervent and deeply felt as it should be, and the final set of variations is just about ideal too, particularly in the tempo rubato, where I have always thought Brainin's phrasing in the Amadeus version to be stiff and unconvincing.

This set also includes extremely fine accounts of the two clarinet sonatas, a convincing alternative to another fine disc I have where the performers are Thea King and Clifford Benson. These sonatas are Brahms's last chamber works, and they have an elegiac feel about them, particularly the first of the two. The whole effect here is richer, especially in terms of the clarinet sound, than from King and Benson, and I would not like to say which I prefer overall. For all the `sunset' mood of the works there is a good deal of forcefulness called for now and again, and these players are not afraid of that. Hepzibah Menuhin gives full value in the big chords, and while no sense of rush would be appropriate the speeds are not allowed to drag either, and rightly not.

I can't really say that you will find much illumination in the liner note, and I'd suggest that if you look for the influence of Beethoven that the author purports to find in the first movement of the C minor quartet you are not going to find it. It doesn't read to me either as if he has appreciated the significance of the wonderful slow movement of this quartet, where there really is influence from Beethoven - from no less than the cavatina of his B flat quartet op 130. The climactic phrase of the opening melody in particular recalls the same point in Beethoven's sublime inspiration, and as played here it stands up very well to the comparison.

All in all, a really admirable set despite this minor let-down. If Germany itself has produced a better version since the great days of the Busch Quartet I can't offhand recall which it is.

Fine sound and solid playing.......2002-07-09

This is a fine sounding disk with solid interpretations of the music. This collection provides all three string quartets with the two sontatas for clarinet and piano. It seems an odd mix, but somehow it works in this collection.

Brahms writes so well for string quartet that I find myself wishing he had found a way to write more of them. Maybe he did and burned them. In any case, these are pieces to treasure and to listen to over and over again. And certainly you will want to hear different interpretations of these pieces.

George Pieterson has a beautiful tone and plays the clarinet sontas with hepzibah Menuhin on the piano. They perform well together and let us hear a part of the repertoire we don't get exposed to unless we are clarinetists or accompanists or relatives to clarinetists! I have always loved the tone of the clarinet and there is a lot to love in these recordings.

This fine recording is certainly worthy of a place in your collection.

Track Listings: