Search - Carl Loewe, Charles August de Beriot, Göbel-Trio Berlin :: Loewe [1796-1869]: Grand Trio, Op.12 / De Beriot [1802-1870], Piano Trio #2 Op.58

Charming, obscure early Romanticism

V. Wilson | Cambridge, MA United States | 07/22/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This disc contains two charming,interesting, trios from lesser known composers of the early- to mid-Romantic era. Of the two, the Loewe strives for greater effect, but the De Beriot piece is probably better, though it's in a lighter vein.The notes point out that Loewe wrote almost no music which did not include the voice. With virtually no experience with chamber music, this trio is a surpringly effective, if flawed, work. It contains much dramatic music, particularly in the first movement, which the notes suggest ought to be called a ballad as were many of the composers songs. The scherzo and finale are full of attractive, dance-like music, but the slow third movement is rather bland.De Beriot's trio eschews any attempt at profundity. Instead, he seems to have composed a relatively simple trio, full of attractive melodies, which may have been meant for use at home. There is a pleasing, naive quality to the music-making of this piece which brings great pleasure. A word to the playing. One of the reviewers below lambastes the players as inaccurate rhythmically. I agree that there are moments of insecurity, but they did not bother me because the musicians seem to be enjoying themselves so much. The Gobel Trio is certainly not the most polished group I've ever heard, but they aren't slick either. Instead of worrying about every last detail, they play both pieces for fun and bring us along with them.All in all, a worthwhile disc off the beaten path. If you've tripped across the piano trios of people like Louis Spohr, Heinrich Marschner and George Onslow and enjoyed those, you might want to give this a listen. I'm sure you'll enjoy it."

Early 19th Century Chamber Works

Jay Silman | New York City, New York | 06/07/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Beriot Trio was a real charmer. The composer used the same theme in the finale in his later Three Duos for two violins, Op. 57 No. 3. The liner notes are helpful. This CD is the third in a continuing series by Signum. Highly recommmended!"