Search - Previn, Rosenfeld, Hoffman :: French Chamber Music: Debussy, Ravel

Luxurious

David Saemann | 10/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording followed performances by these artists at the La Jolla festival in 1992. Andre Previn was still in prime condition as a pianist at this time--how he kept his technique up for so many years while conducting is a mystery--and Julie Rosenfeld and Gary Hoffman are fully equal partners with him. The Ravel Trio is never rushed, and there are some tempos in the first movement that are downright slow. But the whole affair is highly loving. Previn's piano playing assumes the qualities of the best French playing, with a traditionally liquid sort of sound. This is especially winning in the Debussy Trio. It was written when the composer was 18, but is a fully mature and accomplished work. In places it may remind you of Massenet. The string playing here is especially satisfying and virtuosic. The sound engineering on the CD is excellent throughout, with a full tone and superb balances between the instruments. Except for a short timing of 48 minutes, this is a highly worthwhile CD."