Three trios with philharmonics up-close

This season’s Philharmonic Up-Close subscription begins with three trios. Leopold Mozart’s dedication to his son Wolfgang Amadeus’ development was devoted and drew attention. It is easy to forget that he was also a talented composer who left behind numerous compositions, including this playful and emotional piano trio. This is music in the gallant style between Baroque and classical Viennese.

Just as his son Wolfgang’s greatness may have eclipsed Leopold’s achievements, Robert Schumann has overshadowed his wife Clara’s incredible music. It is clear that Clara Schumann was a concert pianist in this beautiful Trio in G Minor, with its elegantly clean-cut and masterful piano section.

Albert Roussel managed to travel a great deal during his short career with the navy. But after a few years at sea, the power of music took over and he began taking private composition lessons. Soon he was accepted at Vincent d’Indy’s Schola Cantorum, which had just opened in Paris. In this impressionistic and painterly piano trio from the early 20th century, we can hear influences from his great role models, Debussy and Ravel.