Schumann: Chamber Music

1. Sostenuto assai
2. Scherzo
3. Andante cantabile
4. Finale
5. Allegro brillante
6. In modo d una Marcia
7. Scherzo, Molto vivace
8. Allegro ma non troppo

WELL worth waiting for, if it s ever reissued - I was lucky enough to find this set on sale in a cutout bin here in Houston. Although readers may have their favorites for certain portions of this repertoire, this set is a real beauty. The only thing missing is the Violin Sonata No.3, which was only published in 1956.Can the French play Schumann? Emphatically YES! and without the pretentious posturings, luftpausen, and darkly thick textures of more Germanically oriented interpreters. Textures are transparent, and the sound is sweet and natural. There is plenty of unashamed romantic warmth when required (listen to cellist Jean-Marie Gamard and violinist Jean Moulliere dreaming their way through the long-breathed song that begins the slow movement of the Piano Quartet), but the fantastic and athletic elements are given their full quirky rein. Pianist Jean Hubeau is a tower of strength and a fount of poetic musicality throughout.As I said, one might have favorite performances of this or that segment of Schumann s chamber music, but for a catch-all set you can t go wrong with this one.