Classical Music: Mozart Piano Sonatas K310-311 & 330-333

The moment Angela Hewitt’s hands touch the keyboard, one is immediately transported into her psyche. Her soul mingles with that of Mozart; she learned many of the works as a child or teenager, and that cognizance permeates into the listener's consciousness as she captures the composer’s spirit in a judicious and perceptive reading of these works.

The other enlightening aspect of this disc is Hewitt’s thoroughly interesting notes. She points out in her comments on the D major that "nothing in Mozart is done by the book. There are always surprises along the way." That, of course, is not limited just to K311.

There is so much beauty in this second volume and such virtuosic playing where Hewitt demonstrates that there are many characteristics to virtuosity, including the ability to convey simplicity in the music. In a world filled with so much horror, intolerance, and hatred, this disc offers us an insight into a more harmonious sphere that humanity can conquer.

One of Mozart’s ‘greatest hits’ is the A major with its first movement theme and six variations, which start with a lullaby-like theme, and of course, ending with
the famous Rondo Alla Turca, where Hewitt delivers a freshness from her Fazioli piano.

Angela Hewitt first performed the Fantasia in D minor, K397, at her first full-length recital, aged nine (at Toronto’s Royal Conservatory of Music).

She writes that ‘So much can be learned with this piece: dynamics, timing, dramatic gestures, expressive harmonies, improvisational style, how to use a singing tone—it’s almost Mozart in microcosm.’ Hewitt gives us six glorious minutes of exquisite artistry.

Her articulation, phrasing and dynamics are impeccable. One hears music that is delicate, intense, stylish, fluid, and well-recorded.