Leif Ove Andsnes, Piano
Virgin Classics
Browsing through the classical section of HMV’s along Orchard Road in Singapore, I chanced upon a reasonably priced 2-CD set of Frederick François Chopin’s complete Piano Sonatas, along with 5 Etudes and 4 Mazurkas, performed by Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes.
The Sonata no. 1 in C minor comes from an earlier period, possibly when Chopin was still in Poland. Traces of Beethoven can be easily gleaned, especially in the fantastic last movement marked Presto, which is a fitting contrast to the highly romantic first movement. However, the harmonic complexity characteristic of Chopin shines through.
The Sonata no. 3 in B minor however, is a bit of a disappointment for me. The first three movements are fine, Leif made the piano sing alright, but the Finale marked Presto non tanto is extremely bangy. I’m not sure Chopin intended it to be played that way. With all that banging, the rhythm slows down a bit in the middle part, maybe the pianist got fatigued, I don’t know but the inconsistency is unfortunately very obvious. I’ve heard a recording more impressive than this one, although I lost that copy, where all the banging and other virtuosic effects were saved for the last few bars for a truly electrifying and breathtaking close.
Chopin’s most famous Piano Sonata, the no.2 in B flat minor, which contains his very popular Marche Funèbre, is like a tragic poem centred around a death theme. Extremely impassioned and hypnotic at the same time, this piece reminds one of Beethoven’s Appassionata in its intensity. Leif did justice to this piece, I am convinced.
The light pieces represented by the Mazurkas are a joy to listen to, very much like Schubert’s small pieces, expressing various moods such as lighthearted humor and even somber melancholy.
Chopin’s Etudes are first and foremost, meant as finger exercises to address specific technical problems. But the melodic invention and harmonic configurations are so refined and impressive they really are works of art rather than just exercise materials. And no wonder, Chopin’s Etudes figure prominently in concert recitals and recordings, such as the 5 featured here by Leif.
Highly recommended.
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