Your guide to classical music online

Dohnányi: Sextet/Takacs

David Hurwitz

Artistic Quality:

Sound Quality:

Here’s yet another recording that never should be out of the catalog, restored to currency thanks to Arkivmusic.com’s “on demand” program. Dohnányi’s Brahmsian First Piano Quintet is a lovely work, but the real prize here is the Sextet, a lush, lyrical, stupendously engaging work from one of the few composers who was able to express humor in his music. Here you find it in the finale, a wonderfully funny romp based on a tune that you will swear you’ve heard before. I can only assume that the curious performing forces have prevented this piece from being a repertoire staple, but it surely deserves that status. The performances are as outstanding as the music is worthy. Schiff and the Takács (and friends) know this music, understand, and project it with unflagging passion and vitality. Neither of these works is over-recorded, so if you haven’t heard them and you missed this extremely well-recorded disc the first time around, now’s your chance to experience one of the most enjoyable chamber music recitals in the catalog. [1/9/2008]


Recording Details:

Reference Recording: none

ERNST VON DOHNÁNYI - Piano Quintet No. 1; Sextet (for piano, clarinet, horn, & strings)

  • Record Label: Decca - 421 423-2
  • Medium: CD

Search Music Reviews

Search Sponsor

  • Insider Reviews only
  • Click here for Search Tips

Visit Our Merchandise Store

Visit Store
  • Ideally Cast Met Revival of Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette
    Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center, NY; March 19, 2024—The Met has revived Bartlett Sher’s 1967 production of Gounod’s R&J hot on the heels of its
  • An Ozawa Story, November, 1969
    Much has justifiably been written regarding Seiji Ozawa’s extraordinary abilities and achievements as a conductor, and similarly about his generosity, graciousness, and sense of humor
  • Arvo Pärt’s Passio At St. John The Divine
    Cathedral of St John the Divine, New York, NY; January 26, 2024—When one thinks of musical settings of Christ’s Passion, one normally thinks of the