Mendelssohn: Works for Piano Trio by the Streeton Trio

Australia’s Streeton Trio is going from strength to strength. Their 2011 debut recording of Ravel and Brahms trios was well received, and they currently enjoy a busy performance schedule – both here and in Europe. This new Mendelssohn recording is, in my opinion, their best work so far. Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio No. 1 – alongside his string octet – is one of the most popular and recognisable pieces in the chamber music repertoire. Even top musicians seldom dare record it for fear of comparisons. It epitomises early-Romantic style, described by the Streeton trio as ‘melodic fluency, instrumental virtuosity and a certain ease of expression’. When played well, Mendelssohn’s trio music – although technically challenging – should sound effortless.

It is this effortlessness that distinguishes the Streeton Trio’s latest CD not only from their debut recording, but also from the numerous other Mendelssohn trio recordings on the market. Violinist Emma Jardine, cellist Umberto Clerici, and pianist Benjamin Kopp offer a tighter, more unified sound than in their earlier Brahms, and they present as a musically intelligent and mature trio. There is a lot to love about their interpretation: it’s crisp, gutsy, and holds its own alongside the likes of the Beaux Arts Trio. An inspired and enjoyable recording.


Alexandra Mathew