Trio Cracovia offers a nicely varied program of minor-key works that, being presented in such close proximity, underlines their stylistic differences. Beethoven’s aggressiveness strains to break through the expressive boundaries of contemporary “classical” style, while Brahms labors to constrain his “romantic” yearnings within the classical form. No such issue for the young Rachmaninov, who unreservedly pours out his grief over the death of Tchaikovsky.
Trio Cracovia’s assertive approach suits the Beethoven, where the musicians strike a bold pose, imparting a particular muscularity to their playing that’s quite different from the Beaux Arts Trio’s lighter touch. In the Brahms Trio Cracovia’s youthful take, with flowing tempos and crisp articulation, sounds decidedly fresher than the Borodin Trio’s dark and weighty rendering. This same approach makes Rachmaninov’s Élégiaque Trio heartfelt and moving, though the Cracovia players avoid the despondency found in the Beaux Arts’ gloomier, though equally valid reading. All three performances feature impeccable musicianship and virtuoso execution. The only shortcoming is the recording’s weak bass response, which in the Beethoven especially limits the music’s impact. However, even with that reservation, this is a very enjoyable disc.
