Schubert: 4 Impromptus, D.899 (Schuch)

Herbert Schuch has always distinguished himself by thoughtful (if not provoking) interpretations and conceptual albums. In his traversal of Schubert's first set of Impromptus, his detail-oriented, supple technique and poised sense of projection serve a powerful and refreshing narrative.

No.1 particularly benfits from Schuch's outsized dynamic range. The transitions between the different sections are masterfully handled, making a point of delivering a very organic reading of this piece's whacky form.

No.2's scales sound anything but notey and rival those of Perahia, Pires or Endres for sheer elegance. The middle section receives a special care for dynamic contrast. The magnificently atmospheric outline of the first minor episode (10:37 and 13:32) is a treat.

No.3 showcases Schuch's eloquent, three-dimensional pianism and perfect textural control, let alone his ghostly left hand playing.

No.4's rippling right hand patterns never sound too worked out and the very organic dynamic gradations of the central section are simply breathtaking.

00:00 Intro
00:13 Impromptu No.1 in C minor
10:13 Impromptu No.2 in E-flat major
15:06 Impromptu No.3 in G-flat major
21:05 Impromptu No.4 in A-flat major

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