Recorded by America's
Beaux Arts Trio in 1985, this two-disc set of Schubert's works for piano trio will please all but the hardest of hardcore Schubert fans. The
Beaux Arts Trio was at the second peak of its career when it made its second recordings of Schubert's trios, and its trademark opulent sound is always and everywhere evident. Separately, violinist Isidore Cohen, cellist
Bernard Greenhouse, and pianist
Menahem Pressler are each superb players with strong techniques and stronger personalities, but together they become more than the sum of their parts. Even a casual listening to any random movement here will demonstrate their gorgeous blend, effortless balances, and intuitive ensemble. For listeners who don't already know Schubert's piano trios, this set is a fine place to start since it contains not only his two large-scale, four-movement works,but also the ravishing late "Notturno" and the charming early sonata for the same ensemble. For hardcore Schubert fans, the
Beaux Arts' emphasis on sensuous beauty over soulful expressivity may be a drawback, but for listeners simply looking to enjoy the music, these sumptuous performances should more than fill the bill. Unlike most labels' early digital sound, Philips' early digital sound, is rich, warm, deep, and full.