<<  -- 6 --  Bill Newman    SPONTANEITY AND IMMEDIACY

One of the most unashamedly brilliant of Sonatas, K284 demands our full repect and closest attention. The sheer detail of notes and phrasework, where both hands share responsibility for the clarity and fullness of bringing out a complete picture of the music's military character, with its fanfares, strutting gait and vigorous protection of the monarchy concept, couldn't be rendered better than here. During the first half of the Allegro opening movement, D major features less after the start than its A major counterpart, where there is a considerable spin-off in development before the corresponding A minor (with modulations) takes over during part 2. A sudden roulade and return to D major resplendently rules the roost in the last three pages. Rondeau en Polonaise, Andante appears at the head of the middle movement in 3/4. The opening A major theme -- minim A, dotted quaver B, semi-quaver G sharp with a five quaver slurred reply denotes the first dance figure, while dotted demisemi/semiquavers, further down the page correspond to the other. D major makes its claims halfway, and there are brief references to F minor and A minor. Throughout the movement, there is a feeling of refined subtlety. Tema with 12 Variations contains some of the composer's most inspired writings as a free-thinking genius that places him on the same par as Bach and Handel before him, and Schumann and Brahms at a later date [listen -- RRC 1253 track 12, 5:38-6:43].

The music and the performances should now be left for all listeners to enjoy to the full. The recorded balance and the tonal pleasures of this overall production are in keeping with the outstanding performances. Hopefully, I shall be in somewhat better health for the continuation of live recitals this month and, of course the review of further CDs during what remains of this year!

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