Here’s proof that one can cobble together a varied and representative Balakirev recital without including his masterpiece Islamey. Danny Driver’s performance of the four-movement B-flat minor sonata is scrupulous and well-played, highlighted by the finale’s expert pacing and nimbly dispatched broken chords that contrast to Earl Wild’s heavier touch. Yet Wild’s freer, more dynamically charged interpretation boasts greater animation and urgent climaxes in the Intermezzo, as well as more pointed and idiomatic accentuation in the Mazurka.
However, Driver’s expressive palette opens up as the B minor Nocturne’s faux Chopin introduction gives way to more massive, organ-like textures (the central section theme reminds me of both the first-movement main theme from Schubert’s Ninth Symphony and the Pie Jesu from Fauré’s Requiem).
The pianist is more at home with the Second Mazurka’s wistful lyricism than with the First’s rough-and-tumble dance qualities, while you could imagine lighter, more scintillating octave passages in the Valse-Caprice and Polka. Yet Driver’s beautifully sung-out rendition of the Glinka transcription features sparkling, colorful, and effortless runs. Excellent, informative notes by David Fanning round out a fine release.
