" I give this trio my warmest recommendation for concert performance but experienced and technically accomplished amateurs should not overlook this work either.”
—Wilhelm Altmann, writing in his Handbook for Piano Trio Players
Paul Graener (1872-1944) served as director of the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London from 1898-1906, taught at the New Vienna Conservatory from 1911-1913, was appointed Director of the Mozarteum in Salzburg in 1914, succeeded Max Reger as Professor of Composition at the Leipzig Conservatory and then served as director of the Stern Conservatory in Berlin from 1934. Graener was a prolific composer and during the 1920’s and 30’s his works, especially his operas, were frequently performed.
Altmann goes on to describe the trio as follows:
"Graener’s Op.61 Piano Trio appeared in 1923 and is in four short movements. The tonality is, to a certain extent, what one expects to hear of a work composed after the First World War but in this trio, Graener has held fast to the concept that only effective melody can give a work merit. The first movement, Moderato, presents several pregnant themes which provide beautiful contrasts. This is especially so of a very lyrical theme followed by a stormy, syncopated rhythmic subject. The main section of the Adagio which follows is of a religious nature. The middle section is a lighter, lovely Andantino. Next is an Intermezzo, un poco allegretto, which, in part, sounds somewhat like the café music of the era. The powerful and dramatic finale, Allegro energico, increases in intensity as the movement progresses and the music makes a very effective closing to the work."
A first-rate modern piano trio, which will appeal to audiences. Long out of print, we are pleased to reintroduce it.