[.ca] Trio Opus 8

completely wonderful:
I happened upon this composer quite by accident, and I now wonder why he is never played. These piano trios are completely wonderful and unlike anything I've heard before. The rythms are quite incredible and I challenge anyone to listen to them without feeling drawn into their swirling mystique.

Raff's music is so good, it will bring tears to your ears:
Joachim Raff is perhaps the best composer of music that is almost never performed. During his lifetime, Raff was considered to be the equal of Brahms and Wagner, but after his death in 1882, his music unfortunately fell into a neglect which has lasted until only recently. Bernard Herrmann's pioneering recording of Raff's 5th symphony ("Lenore") in 1970 is probably responsible for initiating the Raff renaissance (or resurrection). Raff composed works in every form, including 11 symphonies (the last 4 inspired by the seasons), 5 concertos, much chamber/choral/piano music and 6 operas. These 2 trios are very representative of his mature style, being chock full of memorable melodies, innovative harmony and structure, as well as dazzling displays of counterpoint. The players that comprise Trio Opus 8 are clearly in love with this music, giving their all in committed, note-perfect, passionate, and sonically flawless performances. To hear examples of Raff's incredible ability to invent the most ear-haunting melodies, click on either #3 or #5 above. The most unforgettable melody of all is that of the slow movement of trio #4 (sample #7). Unfortunately, the link has been deactivated, so you'll have to purchase the CD to hear it for yourself. This melody is a plaintive barcarole for the cello in the melancholy key of f# minor. The cellist plays with such passion and warmth that it will take your breath away. I can't recommend this recording enough. I guarantee you'll be astonished that such beautiful music has remained unknown for over 100 years.

• Pno Trio No.1 in c, Op.102: Rasch
• Pno Trio No.1 in c, Op.102: Sehr Rasch
• Pno Trio No.1 in c, Op.102: Massig Langsam
• Pno Trio No.1 in c, Op.102: Rasch Bewegt
• Pno Trio No.4 in D, Op.158: Allegro
• Pno Trio No.4 in D, Op.158: Allegro Assai
• Pno Trio No.4 in D, Op.158: Andante Quasi Larghetto
• Pno Trio No.4 in D, Op.158: Allegro