Antje Weithaas - Smetana, Ravel & Watkins: Piano Trios (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with Antje Weithaas' album "Smetana, Ravel & Watkins: Piano Trios." This live recording, released on July 13, 2012, under Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin, showcases the extraordinary talent of Antje Weithaas on violin, accompanied by Marie-Elisabeth Hecker on cello and Huw Watkins on piano. The album spans a total of 68 minutes and 50 seconds, featuring eight tracks that beautifully blend the works of three distinct composers.

The album opens with Bedřich Smetana's Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 15, performed live on June 11. The trio's first movement, "Moderato assai," sets a contemplative tone, followed by the lively "Allegro, ma non agitato" and the spirited "Finale. Presto." The second half of the album is dedicated to Maurice Ravel's Piano Trio in A Minor, M. 67, recorded live on June 12. This piece is a tour de force, with its intricate "Modéré" opening, the rhythmic "Pantoum. Assez Vif," the profound "Passacaille. Très Large," and the exhilarating "Finale. Animé."

The album concludes with a modern piece, "Speak Seven Seas," composed by Huw Watkins, adding a contemporary touch to this classical collection. Antje Weithaas and her fellow musicians deliver a mesmerizing performance, bringing each piece to life with their technical prowess and emotional depth. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is a treasure trove of musical brilliance that will leave you enchanted.