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Beethoven Violin Sonatas---favorites and recs

I am looking for some recommendations. My current set of the sonatas (Argerich/Kremer) is really very good from a performance point of view but suffers from the typical mediocre DG sound. I love the recordings in my car, but in the house they are pretty week and thin. It requires an effort. I’ve also ordered the Mutter set, but again, its DG. My favorite violinists are James Ehnes and Hillary Hahn, but they have not recorded these works, so I need some help here.
I’d like your favorite recordings of the works (individual sonatas or complete sets) regardless of vintage and also some recommendations of recent recordings featuring good performances with excellent sound. Thanks.
brownsfan

Showing 5 responses by brownsfan

brownsfan OP
1,508 posts
 
I had thought about Milstein. I do love his Bach. It sits on my desk at work. The week is not complete if I haven't heard his late 50's recordings. I saw a 99 Pealman/Argerich recording of the Kreutzer. Martha is one of my favorites. Anyone heard that recording?
The Faust on HM had caught my attention also. HM is one of those labels that can be just a tad too bright, but this one might be worth a shot. The video on Amazon seems promising.
brownsfan OP
1,508 posts
 
Rok2id, They are wonderful works. The Kreutzer (9) is very well loved. You might want to start there.
brownsfan OP
1,508 posts
 
Jhold, the Melnikov/Faust arrived today. Just finished a decent sampling including the Kreutzer. Your description is dead on. I do think I am going to like this cycle very much based on what I have heard so far---would that Faust brought a bit more sweetness than steel at times. Perhaps she is aptly named.
I am still searching for some of the other intriguing recommendations in this thread. I must say, I would love to see these works on ECM. Andreas, your Beethoven Cello sonatas were pretty fine! Are you listening, my friend?
brownsfan OP
1,508 posts
 
Goofyfoot, No, I have not. Is that a recommendation or a request for information?
brownsfan OP
1,508 posts
 
Schubert, I can't find the Decca set. Do you have a catalog number and recording date? I do love the DG set with respect to performance. By the way, I picked up the later Milstein Bach set on your recommendation. It is very, very good. Better than his set from the 50's.
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