Concert review: Anne-Sophie Mutter (violin) Pablo Ferrández (cello) Yefim Bronfman (piano)

 Lately you can hear practically anything you desire at Carnegie Hall, from beatboxing to Bluegrass, but it’s reassuring to know that piano trios with Anne-Sophie Mutter, Pablo Ferrández and Yefim Bronfman can still sell out the house for this, its annual Isaac Stern Memorial Concert.

Beethoven’s ‘Archduke’ Trio opened the programme, and was given with generous phrasing and spirit. Mutter’s characteristic mastery of sound and Bronfman’s effortless beauty made space for the vibrant colours produced by Ferrández, who has been touring with Mutter this season. My only complaint was some rather noisy articulation of the spiccato writing, particularly in the first and second movements.

The sophistication of the Andante – with subtle yet effective vibrato, the warmly intense string sound beautifully balanced against the piano – was a delight. Bronfman’s dexterity in the finale was remarkable, his fingers seeming to dance over the keys.

Tchaikovsky’s A minor Piano Trio followed the interval and Mutter’s passion and power lent the first movement dazzling energy and beauty. Its coda was incredibly effective, with no vibrato and almost flautando bow strokes from the string players. Bronfman imbued the expansive opening theme of the second movement with great warmth, and the following cello variation was performed with lush extravagance.

Each of the ensuing variations, whether lighthearted or solemn, vivacious or restrained, impressed for the remarkable ease and brilliance of dispatch from these three players.

LEAH HOLLINGSWORTH