One of the greatest works in the chamber music repertoire, Schubert's Piano Trio #2 is a titanic affirmation of this composer's invaluable contribution to the chamber music genre. This delightful disc has the laudable Florestan Trio interpreting this miraculous work with unabashed vigour and intrinsic virtuosity that does not all intrude on the lyrical effect induced by the composer. The First Movement is the longest at just over 15 minutes and includes some fine parts for the violin in dialogue with the keyboard instrument. Both inner movements are typical Schubertian miniatures lasting just over eight minutes and six minutes respectively. The Finale is also finely constructed, in almost symphonic form and the Florestan Trio are apt performers of this complete work.
The CD also includes the First Movement in an earlier version that is almost a minute slower but not substantially different. My only qualms are regarding the playing time which is only just less than an hour but otherwise this is a fine musical performance all around.
Copyright © 2002, Gerald Fenech