Much like serial novels of the past, pianist
Andras Schiff is releasing his complete
Beethoven cycle one piece at a time, with the complete cycle not scheduled to be finished until 2008. Also like a good serial novel, once you get a hold of a good one, you just can't wait for that next issue to come out. In this, the third volume,
Schiff is again proving to his listeners that his performances and interpretations are worthy of standing alongside other legendary recordings by the likes of
Serkin,
Goode, and
Kempff. Everything about the recordings is well thought out, from the order of performance (chronological rather than by opus number) to the variety of pianos used to the informative liner notes. This forethought is not lost on listeners as it prepares them for the experience before the play button is even pushed.
Volume III contains Opp. 49, 14, and 22, composed between 1797 and 1800.
Schiff's approach to them is light and sensitive, which is not to say unsubstantial. His technique is considerable and it is employed to more clearly demonstrate his well-thought-out concept of the works he is performing. Already worthwhile on its own, this offering promises to be part of an impressive complete cycle.