After recording with Martin Helmchen a reference version of Beethoven’s sonatas for violin and piano, Frank Peter Zimmermann delivers a complete version of Bach’s sonatas and partitas, of which here is the second volume. We measured the first part in May 2022 at the Kavakos integral, which was then making a lot of noise. We preferred the tact of Zimmermann to the tense and demonstrative approach of Kavakos, and the conclusion was: “Once completed, the Zimmermann integral will be measured against that of Ehnes. » We were talking about the second integral Ehnes (Onyx). Finally, we are at the top of the basket (a sort of modern Milstein-Szeryng-Grumiaux “duel”) with these two artists. There is something more “sitting” in Zimmermann, more “free” in Ehnes, judging by the finale of the Sonata no 1. Even if any description turns into caricature, we notice, when listening to the 1D Partitathat in Zimmermann there is respect for Bach, for the build and for the dances, and, in Ehnes, the same thing, but “less square”, rounded by a joy of playing.
Click here to view an excerpt.
To watch on video