Gould Piano Trio Launches Marschner Series

In his time, Heinrich August Marschner was one of Germany’s most celebrated opera composers. From the 1830s through 1852, his operas were box office gold. However, with the rise of Richard Wagner’s new aesthetic, Marschner’s works soon faded into obscurity.

Elsewhere, you can find my reviews of Naxos’ other Marschner recordings. Conductor Dario Salvi is now on his eighth volume of Marschner overtures and operatic music, highlighting the composer’s remarkable gift for melody.

This release reinforces that impression. While opera was Marschner’s forte—he composed 18—he also had a deep affection for the piano trio, writing seven in total. These works were highly esteemed by both Robert and Clara Schumann, and for good reason.

The Gould Piano Trio begins their survey of these pieces with a set of bookends, featuring Marschner’s first and last piano trios.

The Piano Trio No. 1 in A minor, Op. 29, published in 1823, showcases a young Marschner at the start of his career. It brims with great ideas and has a free-flowing quality reminiscent of Schubert.

The Piano Trio No. 7 in F major, Op. 167, published in 1855—over 30 years later—reveals a more mature composer. The themes are tightly organized, and though this trio is longer than the first, it somehow feels more concise. Marschner is in full command of his material, with not a note wasted.

The Gould Piano Trio performs with warmth and sensitivity. Marschner’s music is expressive yet slightly reserved, and the trio plays as if engaged in conversation, at times making the music feel spontaneous.

I look forward to hearing more from this side of Marschner’s work.

Heinrich August Marschner: Piano Trios, Vol. 1
No. 1, Op. 29 and No. 7, Op. 167
Gould Piano Trio
Naxos 8.574612