Lately, I've been listening to Mozart's complete piano sonatas performed
by Andras Schiff on London (443 717-2), and Schiff's new set of Haydn's
sonatas on Teldec (0630-17141-2). I think that one of the keys to
understanding music is by comparing: same works, different performers;
different works, same performers. Now, I only listened to both sets
two or three times, and then during my daily commute to and from work.
Admittedly, my '85 Accord does not have the best accoustics. However, I
have a pretty good sound system and I think I was able hear a few things.
I remember Don Satz describing Mozart as an "entertainer." Comparing
the Mozart and the Haydn, I agree, at least with regards to the sonatas.
They would not be out of place being performed quietly at an expensive
restaurant. The outer movements are bright, lively and inventive.
However, I find something missing in the slower second movements. It's
as if Mozart wrote them merely because they were obligatory. I wonder
what Mozart thought of them. They don't sound as if they are "knock-offs"
or trifles, but compared with the Haydn, they lack some weight.
I think that Haydn used the sonatas as more of a means of expression,
rather than to amuse himself. If I was in a restaurant and someone was
playing Haydn, my food would probably get cold. I think Haydn wrote his
sonatas with more emotion. They are more serious than the Mozart, although
I do not think any work of Haydn could ever be without humor. Again, I
agree with Don in that these sonatas sound almost Romantic.
Schiff is excellent in both. However, I like Schiff's playing of the Haydn
more than his playing the Mozart; maybe because Schiff's style is more
suited to Haydn; maybe because the Haydn recordings have a clearer sound.
I wish I could express myself better.
If any other List members have any comments, I would like very much to read
them.
Thanks, as always.
Ron Chaplin
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