From the very opening of the Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano, I was taken in completely. Egad! What an enchanting, ingratiating and bubbly first movement! Martinu at his most affable and accessible. The work continues with an absolutely gorgeous, melodic Adagio and concludes with a third movement Andante-Allegretto every bit as beguiling as the opening Poco Allegretto. The CD would be worth owning for this trio alone. However, the delights don't cease here.
The Trio for Flute, Violin and Piano is a four movement affair with as much inspiration, depth and loveliness as its sister trio. The Adagio, most moving, should be particularly noted here. And the other movement? Absolutely infectious!
With the Promenades for Flute, Violin and Harpsichord (yes, harpsichord), Martinu titillates us with twentieth century twist on a baroque combination that would no doubt delight Papa Bach easily. The interplay between instruments is clever, pleasing and inventive.
Concluding the CD is the two-movement Madrigal Sonata for Flute, Violin and Piano. Rather "jazzy," and somewhat reminiscent of a theme or two from Bernstein's West Side Story, this piece has a "New York feel" to it that I truly enjoy.
If I were to select one Martinu chamber works CD that was musically, intellectually and emotionally satisfying, this would be it. Special praise should be given to each and every member of the Feinstein Ensemble for the glorious mutuality of their playing and for their musical empathy. And, as if this wasn't enough, Naxos has garnered a beautiful, realstic sound image.
[Running time: 54:41]