Brahms:Piano Sonata No.3 op.5/Intermezzo/etc(12/2001):Evgeny Kissin(p)

Brahms' Piano Sonata No. 3 was a monumental accomplishment for the young composer, and it is even more remarkable for being the last such work he would write. The scope of this sonata is comparable to those of the mature Beethoven, and its development and depth make it as complete a statement in that form as any nineteenth century composer would achieve. So strong is the work's assurance and sense of purpose that total commitment and stamina are required to unite the sonata's formal structure and passionate expression in a satisfying whole. From the powerful opening chords forward, it is clear that Evgeny Kissin's prodigious technique is matched by his emotional and intellectual involvement. Kissin's command of the keyboard is impressive, and the expressive demands the music makes are directly met. Kissin sustains his performance by playing the music as written, and he brings off towering sonorities without grandstanding and gentle lyricism without preciosity. This work's majestic weight is somewhat alleviated by the selections that follow it. The Intermezzo's simplicity of expression is effectively contrasted with a light and witty reading of the Capriccio. Even lighter, the five Hungarian Dances offered here are among Kissin's favorite encore pieces and are performed with great panache.