Search - Johann Nepomuk Hummel, Constance Keene :: Johann Nepomuk Hummel: Complete Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1

Hidden masterpieces in good performances

S. M. Struhl | Wilmette, IL United States | 01/13/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Hummel at his best is in the top ranks of composers, worthy to be considered along with Mozart and Beethoven. Unfortunately, his output is uneven, with some works that sound exceedingly lightweight or even trivial. Perhaps this explains the neglect of works that are real masterpieces, like the third piano sonata. This is a bold, imaginative and extremely well-constructed work, almost breathtaking in the ease with which it moves from one exceptionally well made section to another. We see continuous growth in the other two pieces, with sonata 1 more conventional, but still a pleasing piece with memorable tunes; sonata 2 already is moving in unexpected and pleasing directions. Constance Keene is a very good player, but in the most complex contrapuntal passages sometimes has a little trouble sorting out all the moving lines. She does not command the personality and sense of humor that you will find in Steven Hough, but is a sound guide to this undeservedly neglected repertoire. The recording is good but not exceptional."