Brahms Violin sonatas by Chung Kyung Wha,Frakl EMI 1CD

There are many recordings of these three masterpieces of the sonata literature, but if two artists can communicate a personal response to them, another one is always welcome. This recording is certainly a valuable addition to the discography. Chung and Frankl have obviously thought carefully about the music and feel it strongly; their approach shows great respect for the composer's style and intentions as well as genuine emotional involvement. Equally at home with Brahms's classical austerity, romantic ardor and autumnal mellowness, they identify completely with the expansive, wistful lyricism of the first sonata; the gracious poetry and warmth of the second; the urgent, dramatic intensity of the third. They favor flowing tempi; long phrases; discreet, subtle liberties; simple, direct expressiveness. Balance and ensemble are excellent; both players are technically impeccable. Chung's tone is beautiful at all times; warm and radiant, it glows and shimmers. --Edith Eisler

   1. Sonata for violin & piano No. 1 in G major ("Regen"), Op. 78
      Composed by Johannes Brahms
      with Peter Frankl, Kyung-Wha Chung

   2. Sonata for Violin & Piano No. 2 in A major ("Thun"), Op. 100
      Composed by Johannes Brahms
      with Peter Frankl, Kyung-Wha Chung

   3. Sonata for Violin & Piano No. 3 in D minor, Op. 108
      Composed by Johannes Brahms
      with Peter Frankl, Kyung-Wha Chung