McDermott delivers intimate, personal performances of Haydn Sonatas

This release is a follow-up to McDermott's 2014 release of Haydn Piano Concertos and Sonatas. This time, Anne-Marie McDermott presents an entire program of solo sonatas.

Haydn's sonatas have a deceptive simplicity to them. The technical demands are modest (compared to sonatas by Beethoven and later composers). But that doesn't mean they're insubstantial.

McDermott performs with a light, deft touch that gives these works an elegant delicacy. The precision of her runs lets the listener enjoy every note.

And her overall interpretation of these works is spot-on. The D major sonata, for example, fairly sparkles with good-natured charm. McDermott's masterful phrasing reveals the pleasingly balanced architecture of the music.

As always, Bridge's recording is immaculate. The piano has a warm, natural sound. It's a close, intimate sound that serves these works well.

Franz Joseph Haydn: Sonatas, Vol. 2
Sonata in C major, Hob. XIV:48; Sonata in G major, Hob. XVI:39; Soanta in 
A-flat major, Hob.XVI:46; Sonata in D major, Hob.XVI:37
Anne-Marie McDermott, piano
Bridge Records 9497