Customer Reviews

Prokofiev: Piano Sonatas Nos. 2, 3, 5 & 9

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is an absolutely fantastic collection of interpretations. The nuances are so brilliantly, yet subtly, incorporated, and Bronfman's tone is amazing. My favorite is probably the second sonata ... in the first movement he produces such a fantastic, eerie sensation in the second theme. The last movement was so exciting and involved, carefully thought through in every way, yet played with a delightful abandon. I've listened to this CD over and over again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an absolutely spectacular performance of these sonatas.

This is another splendid installment in Bronfman's cycle of the Prokofiev sonatas. Bronfman's approach to all works is deeply considered, thoughtful and individual though with an unerring understanding of the style and what makes these sonatas work. The performances are technically impeccable, the melodic lines excellently articulated and the overall conception of the individual works entirely convincing - still, there is no shortage of color and range of expression. In short, this is among the most convincing cycles of Prokofiev piano sonatas out there, and although I wouldn't want to be without certain other especially individual performances this is a superb choice for the whole cycle.

The second is very finely done, although it may perhaps lack a little bit in momentum and forward drive. In the third, however, Bronfman's play with lights and shadows and realization of the layered textures is unsurpassed - the phrasing is absolutely stunning, and the overall narrative structure impressively sustained. The lightness of touch, especially in the faster parts, is almost breathtaking.

Yet the truly outstanding performance here is probably the fifth (the earlier version is used), where the range of colors and moods is absolutely marvelous, especially in the sarcastic and (for lack of a better term) deranged final movement. The ninth is very convincing as well, even though Bronfman chooses a lighter (but completely convincing) approach than some; this is a rather gently lyrical account, but not without humor and sparkle. These performances are, in short, major contenders in the repertoire, and they receive very good sound; strongly recommended.

This is a mixed bag. Yefim Bronfman approaches the ninth with just the right amount of naivete and humility, but he does become a bit too clangorous in his versions of the second and third. I think that the extroversion of these pieces as opposed to the quietude of the 9th leads Bronfman to lose some of the nuances that he creates in the ninth. The fifth is fine, though he plays the original version (Prokofiev revised it at the end of his careeer), which is seldom played, so it caught me off guard.