JANACEK: In the Mist; Sonata October 1, 1905; On the Overgrown Path; Reminiscence.
Andras Schiff, p- ECM 461 660- 76:05
Every recital of Janacek’s piano music revives old issues in our minds. Firkusny and Kvapil – which of the two captured the real meaning beyond the markings in Janacek’s scores? The former (RCA 60147) was a master of poetry, humanity and spontaneity, while emotion and mystery prevailed in the playing of the latter (Unicorn-Kamchana 9156). Many recordings of Janacek’s piano music have been issued in the past ten years, yet none of them changed the original order despite some striking and remarkable versions like that of Alain Planes (Harmonia Mundi 941508). The reason for this might be the complexity of the music compounded by various equations that for Kvapil could be seen as symbols. Andras Schiff’s interpretation may well be considered as the modern benchmark. He grasps all the intimacy inherent in the music, adding a touch of mystery or a folk dance when necessary. He suggests, with subtlety and refinement (In the Mist: second theme of III). But his most substantial contribution is his ability to reveal the free expression of musical phrases closed to the "speech-in-music" theory developed by the composer. Tempos, rhythm, accents and breath seem to be devoted to this crumbled speech and are always marked with emotion. Schiff never fails to evoke the rustling of nature or the fugitive essence of life. His playing is poised between sound and silence, allowing the harmonics to continue sounding until the end. According to Janacek, a true artist is someone who doubts. Is this serene tranquillity or melancholy cynicism? Andras Schiff’s playing strikes a balance between them, creating an unforgettable experience.
VILLEMIN
Published in American Record Guide, Vol. 64, N. 6