Piano Sonata No. 16 in A minor D845
Piano Sonata No. 18 in G D894
Piano Sonata No. 19 in C minor D958
Piano Sonata No. 21 in B flat D960

There's a measure of tenuous fragility to pianist Shai Wosner's interpretation of the Piano Sonatas by Franz Schubert (1797-1828) that from the outset, would lead you to believe that it would not be able to support their emotional substance. In general, his pianissimo and piano markings are extreme, his staccato notes highly detached and his tempos relaxed. When compared to some of the old-school readings from the past, his approach almost seems cold and austere. But therein lies the sleight of hand, because when the music calls for more emotive weight, or mood shifts, or wide dynamic swings, Shai Wosner has plenty of room to manoeuvre and many dramatic avenues to choose from.

For example, I know I've said this before but I think it bears repeating: Unlike Beethoven for example, and maybe because he wasn't as technically proficient, Schubert never allowed pianistic bravura to alter the direction or purpose of a piece. Like a vulture, he would keep circling over the same thematic idea or subject until he had viewed it from all angles and exhausted all possibilities, instead of flying off in a different direction and expanding a movement's development. The first movement of the Piano Sonata No. 21 in B flat D960 is a prime example of this. At over 20 minutes in duration, it can overstay its welcome. I've lost interest halfway through some recordings, and really get bored with it when I play it myself. But Shai Wosner comes at it from so many different perspectives along the way that you can't help but follow along on the journey. And I've never heard the sublime slow movement of the D960 sound so crystal clear and translucent, and yet so profound. Unassuming and yet remarkable piano playing!