The first movement of the Sonata K448, a highpoint in Mozart’s catalogue, receives an unforced and joyous outing from this duo, displaying exemplary teamwork, further demonstrated by a flowing expressive Andante and a dashing Finale. If not quite erasing memories of Ashkenazy and Frager on Decca, this from Tarli and Varbanov is impressive and rewarding. The Concertos are similarly recommendable, festive and spontaneous in K365, the ECO contributing much that is lively and vivid, and if K242 (nominally for three pianos) is maybe the lesser work it is nonetheless attractive. Tony Faulkner’s recorded sound is first-class in its tangibility and equable balance, not just between the soloists, and both with the orchestra, but between treble and bass. Orchid Classics ORC100315.
Fiammetta Tarli & Ivo Varbanov record Mozart for Two Pianos: the Concertos for Two Pianos K242 & K365 – with English Chamber Orchestra/Muhai Tang – and the Sonata K448 for Orchid Classics.
