The Munich Dvorák Trio finds the customary angst in the “Dumky” trio’s opening but doesn’t shake it off so easily for the bright, dancing allegro that follows. The tempo is markedly slower than is customary (allowing for some beautifully articulated playing), especially when compared to that of the Smetana Trio in its smashing performance on Supraphon. Perhaps the Munich Trio’s is the more mature approach–after all, how many adults have the childlike ability to forget their troubles and jump for joy? The Munich ensemble’s interpretive weight affects the remaining movements as well, especially the poignant fourth movement, which here loses its mystery and winds up sounding like a song of bereavement. Dvorák’s youthful B-flat trio finds the group in a lighter, gayer mood, bringing to the work the requisite energy and youthful ardor. Again, the playing is seamless and splendid, and it’s captured in very fine sound. Not the first choice for Dvorák’s trios (that would be the Fontenay Trio’s complete set on Teldec), but a worthwhile effort. Notes are in German only.
