There are many things that can bring about a truly memorable, quality album. Among them is a compelling, unique program. The
Trio Bamberg, made up of pianist
Robert Benz, violinist Jewgeni Schuk, and cellist
Robert Benz, has achieved just that with this juxtaposition of Beethoven's Piano Trio, Op. 70/1; the so-called "Ghost" Trio; and E.T.A. Hoffmann's "Grand" Trio in E major. Today, Hoffmann is much more widely remembered for his significant literary contributions; for most of his life, however, Hoffmann aspired to a musical career. He was able to compose a great many works for a wide range of ensembles, though many of his efforts have long since been forgotten. Hoffmann was also important for his close personal relationship with Beethoven, and his incredibly descriptive, detailed writings about music, which some consider to be the birth of modern musical criticism. When hearing Beethoven's and Hoffmann's trios played together, it is easy to see why Hoffmann failed to make an enduring mark as a composer. While he clearly had a command of the mechanics of composition, much of his writing is largely emulative of the giants whom he revered while lacking in a unique musical voice. Still, to hear Hoffmann's work while considering his own words on Beethoven's trio is an enlightening experience. The
Trio Bamberg offers listeners an enthusiastic and spirited interpretation of both works. Their tempos are quite energetic, and while some listeners may find their central movement of the "Ghost" trio to be a little brisk, they are still largely successful in capturing the ethereal stillness of the movement. The interplay between the three musicians is solid, intonation in the strings is spotless, and balance is transparent. The piano's recorded sound is sometimes a bit nasal, but otherwise sound quality throughout the album is enjoyable.