An die Musik -Favourite Schubert Songs; Die Forelle D.550, Der Erlkonig D.328, etc (2/1994) / Bryn Terfel(Bs-Br), Malcolm Martineau(p)

In this Deutsche Grammophon recital of Schubert lieder, baritone Bryn Terfel is in absolutely top-notch form. He is completely secure in his technique, and his voice is effortlessly full and rich throughout his range. The selection of songs gives him the opportunity to express a broad range of moods, from the dread of "Gruppe aus dem Tartare" to the serenity of "Du bist die Ruh" to the exuberance of "Die Forelle." One of Terfel's greatest strengths is his ability to color his voice without altering its purity, an attribute that makes his "Erlkonig" harrowing and heartbreaking. There's not a weak moment in the recital; Terfel's readings are expressively exuberant but mature, and consistently get at the emotional core of the songs. Pianist Malcolm Martineau provides a nuanced and supple accompaniment, and showcases the piano's role in creating the songs' magic. Deutsche Grammophon's sound is present and clean, with excellent balance between the voice and piano. The variety of songs makes this collection an ideal introduction to Schubert's lieder for listeners new to the breadth of his genius, and the beauty of Terfel's voice and the depth of his interpretations offer much to listeners for whom these songs are old friends