Isabelle Faust, Florent Boffard - Fauré - Sonates pour violin et piano (2008)

Though French violinist Isabelle Faust had previously released a disc of Bartók and subsequently released a disc of Martinu, in between she released a disc of Fauré's violin music in 2001. And while her Bartók and Martinu discs were both excellent, there is something quite special about her Fauré recording. As those who have heard her other discs know, Faust has a powerful technique, a focused vibrato, an expressive tone, and an unfailing sense of pacing. But as she shows here, she also has a big heart, a deep soul, and a palpable identification with Fauré's Romantic idiom. Her reading of the early A major Sonata is warm and consoling in the opening Allegro molto and Andante and bright and vivacious in the closing Allegro vivo and Allegro quasi presto. Even more impressive is her account of the late E minor Sonata. Her long lines soar over pianist Florent Boffard's rippling accompaniment in the outer Allegro non troppos, and her smooth bow work in the central Andante fairly glows with affection. For just a taste of Faust's way with Fauré, try her Berceuse. It shines, it gleams, it does everything but puts its arms around you and gives you a hug. Recorded in clear, close digital sound, this disc should be heard by anyone who enjoys great violin playing.