By titling these 10 works “Sonatas for Piano and Violin”, Beethoven put both instruments on equal footing to a degree unprecedented in chamber literature. Likewise, democracy rules the musical roost by way of Josef Suk and Jan Panenka’s stylish give and take. Their conversational rapport is further enhanced by the extreme stereo separation in these 1966/67 recordings, which are in good sound for their vintage. The Argerich/Kremer performances on Deutsche Grammophon benefit from more robust sonics and riskier outer movements. Listeners wishing a less volatile approach to this repertoire will appreciate the Czech duo’s phonogenic understatement and insightful musicianship. All in all, a highly distinctive release that reveals more with each rehearing.
