Schubert: Piano Sonata in E-flat major, D. 568, 6 Moments musicaux
Mitsuko Uchida's slowly evolving Schubert cycle continues to thrill and scintillate with every new volume. At first glance, the works here might seem less essential than some of her previous offerings: an early (and infrequently played) sonata and the endlessly recordedMoments musicaux. However, just a few minutes' listening will soon persuade you otherwise. Schubert may have been only 20 when he penned this E-flat Sonata, but in Uchida's hands its expansive four-movement form is a perfect delight. She finds an ideally dancing lilt for the opening Allegro, not allowing the moments of drama to overshadow the movement's sunny disposition. In the melancholy Andante molto, Uchida offers a consoling warmth, while there are depths revealed in her traversal of the finale that many other pianists skate over. Indeed, it is Uchida's ability to illuminate the music from within that makes her such a great interpreter of this repertoire. Here, she leaves you wondering why the sonata isn't played more often--and there's no higher praise than that. And though there are more than enough recordings of theMoments musicauxalready available, Uchida's is right up there with the best. Again, she manages to cast new light on these overexposed little charmers. The whole experience is enhanced by a wonderfully warm, natural recording and interesting and informative notes.--Harriet Smith