Smetana

| Ma Vlast | Evelinde Trenker, Sontraud Speidel | MC SACD with additional 2+2+2

Smetana’s Ma Vlast is a standard part of the concert repertoire. In structure, it is similar to Lizst’s symphonic poems. Heard with a full orchestra it’s a thrilling piece. Here it’s arranged for two pianos and played by Eveline Trencher and Sontraud Speidel. The two pianos provide a tonal depth that one piano would not, and the pianists preserve the emotion and lush dynamics of the piece. It’s a surprisingly good listen… and a captivating one… and one of the finest piano recordings I’ve heard, with superb dynamics—but I can’t say I prefer it to the original. The 5.1-channel SACD is excellent, with a realistic image of the two pianos in a natural acoustic. The recording also has the standard CD layer and something being pushed in Europe, a 2+2+2 layer with extra front speakers. This performance of Ma Vlast stands well on its own.