BEETHOVEN FOR THREE – EMANUEL AX / LEONIDAS KAVAKOS / YO-YO MA

The trio of world-renowned virtuosos – Yo-Yo Ma on cello, Leonidas Kavakos on violin, and Emanuel Ax on piano – return with “Beethoven for Three, Vol. 2,” a captivating album that delves into Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (arr. Wosner) and Piano Trio No. 3, Op. 1/3. Building on their previous successes, this collection takes the listener on a vibrant journey through two distinct compositions, demonstrating the ensemble’s mastery and artistic insight.

The album opens with an ambitious rendition of Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 6,” affectionately known as the ‘Pastoral.’ The trio’s interpretation sheds new light on this well-known orchestral work, presenting it in an intimate and chamber music setting. While the transformation of such a grand symphony into a trio arrangement is a commendable endeavor, the execution reveals a mix of successes and challenges. The first movement is marked by a meticulous attention to pedal points and repetitions, though at times the subtleties of texture and sustained lines, particularly in the ‘Scene by the Brook,’ feel slightly elusive. The ‘Storm’ movement, while carrying the intended intensity, occasionally verges on becoming overloaded and strenuous, possibly affecting the balance between instruments.

In the ‘Shepherds’ Thanksgiving,’ the trio grapples with tempo inconsistencies, which slightly diminish the intended breadth and nobility of the music. Here, the performers’ interpretation perhaps slightly inhibits the piece’s potential impact, while the climax could have benefited from a more substantial weight, as the arranger’s decisions play a role in shaping this aspect of the performance.

The true revelation on this album comes with Beethoven’s Piano Trio No. 3, Op. 1/3. The ensemble’s thoughtful exploration of this composition showcases a harmonious blend of Ma, Kavakos, and Ax’s individual virtuosity. The trio displays an impressive command over their instruments, thoughtfully navigating the musical material while allowing Beethoven’s genius to shine through. The balance achieved between the instruments is particularly noteworthy, with each musician contributing their unique voice to create a unified and enchanting performance. Vibrato, a key expressive element, is employed thoughtfully, adding depth and dimension to the piece, showcasing the artists’ keen understanding of Beethoven’s intentions.

Emanuel Ax’s piano work in the Piano Trio No. 3 is a highlight of the album. Liberated from the challenges presented in the ‘Pastoral’ arrangement, Ax delivers trills and passagework with effortless sparkle, infusing the outer movements with vivacity and brilliance. The Andante’s variations provide a platform for delicate characterizations from all three musicians, showcasing their musical synergy. The Minuet radiates charm, contributing to a well-rounded and deeply satisfying rendition of this trio.

In “Beethoven for Three, Vol. 2,” Yo-Yo Ma, Leonidas Kavakos, and Emanuel Ax continue to demonstrate their remarkable musicianship and dedication to exploring Beethoven’s compositions from fresh perspectives. While the trio’s interpretation of the ‘Pastoral’ symphony might not consistently capture all the nuances of the orchestral original, their captivating performance of the Piano Trio No. 3 stands as a testament to their profound understanding of Beethoven’s artistry. This album is a fine addition to the ensemble’s discography, offering listeners a unique opportunity to experience Beethoven’s music in an intimate and engaging manner.