Search - Jean Martin :: Reger: Six Piano Pieces / Silhouetten / Blatter Und Bluten

REGER REFRAINS AND REFULGENCES

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 05/30/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It's easy to enjoy the unique qualities of Max Reger [1873-1916], the rather taciturn, neglected cross-century composer, through the recording here: an utterly sensible collection of his most accessible, melodic and often illuminating piano music.



The Op. 24 ("Six Pieces for Piano") are lovely, substantial works laced with haunting melodies, typical of Reger at his best, and crowned by a concluding "Rhapsodie" of Brahmsian proportions. The Op. 53 ("Silhouetten") are seven shorter pieces of varying mood and contrast. Of particular beauty is the contemplative "Langsam, schwermutig." The Op. 58 ("Blatter und Bluten") are twelve pieces very reminiscent of Schumann's "Albumblatter," but no less charming despite the occasional whimsy.



Pianist Jean Martin is the ideal advocate: He is inside Reger completely and at home with the composer's attractive, if idiosyncratic, writing. Martin, as well, is given glorious, full-bodied, realistic sound.



[Running time: 79:19]"