Medtner - Sonata in F Minor Op. 5 (Tozer, Debargue)

Medtner's Sonata in F minor, Op. 5, is the first sonata Medtner composed. This sonata shows some influence of Scriabin and Rachmaninoff, however, its very original and already features some of the genius Medtner's craftmanship. Even though not representing the later works of the composer, Medtner gaining in subtlety and complexity in the years, this work is already particularly impressive, and clearly shows Medtner's ability to compose pieces with a total mastery of the structure. The first movement is dramatic and already seems to feature tale-like Medtner style. Then, the second movement is an intermezzo, darker than the first movement and march-like. The third movement is marked "Largo divoto" and make the transition with the fourth movement with an epic maestoso climax. The fourth movement is absolutely incredible : an unstoppable flow, a diabolic race, getting crazier and crazier until the final measures : an explosive, jubilant end.
The two performances left me speechless. There won't be much to say about Tozer recording, it's simply amazing, full of fire and passion. But then, i got absolutely stroke by the Debargue interpretation. A relatively unknown Medtner performer, giving one of the best performances of the sonata. He plays extremely delicately where it needs, has an absolute control over every single details, is very clear but without being unemotional and cold ; in fact, this is maybe the most expressive performance of the sonata. Debargue absolutely owns the sonata.

Tozer :
00:00 - I. Allegro
11:44 - II. Intermezzo: Allegro
15:00 - III. Largo
22:49 - IV. Finale: Allegro risoluto
Debargue :
30:50 - I. Allegro
43:25 - II. Intermezzo: Allegro
49:07 - III. Largo
57:57 - IV. Finale: Allegro risoluto

Pianists : Tozer, Debargue