Customer Reviews

Handel: Sonata 4 in D Major / Mozart: Sonatas for Piano and Violin in C, K. 295; in E minor, K. 304; in G, K. 301 / Prokofiev: Sonata No. 2 in D, Op. 94a

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This is a splendid reissue of classic performances which were otiginally issued in the United States on a Capitol LP. The performances of the Handel and Prokofiev are gorgeously played, beautifully balanced and really pop off the disc with excitement. Artur Balsam was the greatest accompanist of his time and shows his gifts here, supporting Milstein's radiant playing beautifully but still playing with profile and his own ideas about the pieces. Superb!

The CD reissue substitutes three fine performances of classic Mozart sonatas, with a different pianist, for the Vitali "Chaconne" with Balsam, which was on the original US release on LP, in a riveting and grand performance. The Mozart performances are not quite as successful as are the scintillating Handel and Prokofiev, I think mostly because of the lesser pianist. Balsam had that effect on many of those whom he accompanied. Why not substitute the Vitali for one of the Mozart sonatas?

The sound is clear, wide range mono. There is a bit of tape noise but it never interferes with one's enjoyment of these great performances.

It was a great classical CD. Handel sonatas performed to perfection. I really have to say, it was great.