The first thing to be noticed about this superb violin-piano recital disc is the very modernist art which adorns the alternative jewel-box package. It is by artist George Condo and was inspired by the performances on the SACD. Frankly, I don’t see any connection between the music and the art, but never mind that. This is one of the most thoroughly enjoyable recorded violin-piano recitals I have ever heard.
The Franck and Debussy make a perfect pair, and the performing pair of Schwarzberg and Argerich demonstrate astonishing facility with the music. Of course Argerich is one of the finest pianists living today, and is known for her expertise in the chamber music area as well as handling solo stints. Russian violinist Schwarzberg was new to me; she is a professor at the Vienna Academy of Music and has trained many top violinists as well as performing in concert halls thruout the world. Both performers excel in super-legato phrasing that just seems to flow inevitably. All the the entrances and releases show silky perfection and gorgeous tone – ably abetted by Avanti’s hi-res sonics. In the Franck Schwarzberg gloriously brings out the familiar theme in the fourth movement. She produces a wide selection of different timbres appropriate to different sections of the music. It’s almost like going from one section of the orchestra to another. The closing Schumann work – though not impressionistic I was struck by how well it fits into the program – glows with liquid phrasing and a feeling of flow. Glorious music in glorious performances, preserved in glorious immersing sound.
– John Sunier
