Duo Amadé, in Vol. 3 of its
Mozart duo sonatas survey on the Chandos label, proves yet again what magnificent results are possible when so much focus is given to a very specific portion of the repertoire. The choice of instruments continues to enhance the group's ample skills as performers. Violinist Catherine Mackintosh plays on a 1703 instrument by Giovanni Grancino and a 18th century Dodd bow, the combination of which produces a clear, robust sound. The fortepiano played by Geoffrey Govier is a replica of a 1795 Anton Walter instrument that produces a staggering range of dynamics and intricacy of tone colors. Playing together, they are true to the score in making the keyboard the dominant instrument, but also pay respect to
Mozart's trending toward moving the violin from an entirely subservient role; Mackintosh certainly never hides behind the fortepiano, instead maintaining at least equal partnership and at times even rising appropriately to the forefront. Technical aspects of the duo's performance are pristinely polished with perfectly matching articulation, amazing intonation in the violin (especially considering the keyboards unequal temperament tuning), and a keen sense of dynamic balance. Apart from all these technical considerations, the
Duo Amadé has a well-established musical intention it shares with listeners in a pure and thoroughly enjoyable manner.