Thanks to the combined talents of Isabelle Faust (performing on a gut-strung violin) and Alexander Melnikov (on a period piano), César Frank’s Sonata reclaims the incomparable sonority and texture which reveal its intended poetry and force. The celebrated Concert by Ernest Chausson likewise regains its astonishing freshness in this new light which delicately illuminates the intimate sound world of the composer.
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REVIEW:
Faust and the quartet use vibrato rather sparingly, which clarifies the often intricate texture of the Chausson and creates a luminosity that conjures and maintains a spellbinding, moonlit atmosphere. Melnikov, Faust, and the Salagon frequently bring the composer's fascination with Wagner to the fore and even anticipate the languorous sensuality of Scriabin thanks in large part to the pianist's judicious phrasing.
The Franck Sonata is equally impressive. Faust again uses vibrato prudently, and in general finds intense expresssivity in restraint and emotional directness.
