Mendelssohn: Piano Trios - CD

ENGLISH

<br><br>In 1832 Felix Mendelssohn (1809-47) wrote to his sister Fanny that is what about time he wrote some ‘good trios’. He had already started but left unfinished a trio for piano, violin and viola, and started the D minor trio shortly after, completing it in 1839. Mendelssohn’s friend the composer-pianist Ferdinand Hiller advised him after the completion to make several revisions to make the work sound as up to date as possible – Hiller, was a pupil of Hummel was a keen supporter of Berlioz and Liszt. The result is a work of perfect proportions, with a brilliant piano part, skilful counterpoint and a wonderful blend of classical poise and romantic passion. Schumann reviewing the Leipzig premiere on 1840 commented that the trio was a masterpiece that would ‘bring joy to our children and grandchildren’.<br /> <br /> The second trio is dedicated to the great German violinist and composer Louis Spohr. Composed six years after the firstst trio, it is a very different work in mood. Tense, dark and almost symphonic in places, the work makes references to a chorale in Bach’s Cantata No.130, and Schumann’s Fantasiestucke Op.12 of 1837. – the two themes combining towards the end of the finale. The second trio was the last important chamber work Mendelssohn composed.<br /> <br /> Other information<br /> - This trio’s performance in Washington DC was praised by the Washington Post as "the most beautiful chamber music concert of the year".