Bernd Glemser - Schumann: Symphonic Etudes, Fantasie in C Major (2004)

Bernd Glemser is one of Naxos' reliable workhorse pianists who gives a solid performance of Schumann's Symphonic Etudes and the Phantasie, Op. 17, on this disc. Glemser doesn't just sit down and play what's written. He does give thought to the character of each variation in the Etudes, and more importantly, given his affection for counterpoint, he gives a great deal of thought to the shaping of each melody, counter-melody, and harmony line. He brings out hidden countermelodies that are lost in the background harmony in other pianists' performances, adding dimension to the Etudes. The Phantasie is brisk, energetic, and fervent, but as with the more intense Etudes and other places in the Phantasie, there is a sense that the sound of the recording isn't allowing the full impact of Glemser's concentrated emotion to be heard. The expected "oomph" comes out "oh." There are also moments where a slight change in articulation would have added to the moody nature of the work, such as at the opening, where a little softer flow or shimmer in the left hand would make the right hand stand out even more. Glemser's performance of the two works may not be profound or monumental, but it is still an excellent value for the budget price.