Medtner - Sonata in G Minor, Op. 22 (Gilels, Milne, Tozer)

The Medtner's sonata in G minor, Opus 22, was often considered to be one of Medtner's greatest, and is surely the most performed and well known out of them all. It has been performed by Prokofiev, by Horowitz, and recorded by Moiseiwitsch and Gilels, giants of the piano. It hasn't been recorded by Horowitz, because of the mediocre critics that incorrectly opined that ""not a single phrase of it quickens the pulse"! It is so appreciated for diverse reasons ; its powerful drama, its refined beauty, the first note already sends the listener to another world. But also for its incredible structure, coherent and organic. As Heinrich Neuhaus wrote: ‘The sonata’s trajectory is felt from the first to the last note as one uninterrupted line.’

The interpretations here contrasts a lot. Gilels recording is fiery, very dramatic, and overall an amazing performance of the piece, with some truly captivating interpretation passages. Milne is extremely clear, the playing is very precise, but without being cold and unemotional. Its actually the opposite, as his performance is both technically and emotionally accomplished. Now about Tozer, well as always he plays with that refinement and elegance that makes him one of the best Medtner interpreter. It's dramatic, passioned, and very delicate.