In 2000, when Severin von Eckardstein won the third place prize at the Leeds International competition, he was also awarded a prize for his interpretation of twentieth century works. This is his second disc for MDG, and like the first, it takes advantage of his knowledge and interpretation of "modern" piano music, even though Scriabin's Preludes and the Sonata No. 3 pre-date the twentieth century. Eckardstein plays these works very facilely, moving smoothly between the most intimate pianissimo to the broadest fortissimo, and with a worry-free handling of the technical challenges. He takes full advantage of the piano's different sounds and tones here and uses a well-judged amount of pedal, picked up well by the recording, that adds to the abstract nature of the music. He leaves no doubt that Scriabin wrote these for the piano and no other instrument or ensemble. But Eckardstein is not just showing off his ability to play difficult works with ease. There is a large measure of maturity in his playing as well. Each of the preludes is distinct in character, just as Chopin's are, and Eckardstein recognizes that each one is different, has its own shape, shades, and temperament. He appreciates the more elusively named emotions that go with the shifting harmonies of the Sonata No. 8, and relishes the happier thoughts of the Sonata No. 3. His program notes included in the booklet reflect his understanding of both the expressive and technical sides of Scriabin's music. There is some room for growth in Eckardstein's Scriabin, but it confirms a potential that has been recognized in competition.
© TiVo