Orli Shaham

Complete Piano Sonatas Vol. 2 & 3

Canary Classics, 2022

8/10

Listen to Complete Piano Sonatas Vol. 2 & 3

The esteemed concert pianist Orli Shaham continues with her interpretations of Mozart’s piano sonatas, and here, across 2 discs, she tackles some of Mozart’s most popular work with incredible dexterity and moments of strategic improvisation.

Disc 1, Volume 2, displays Shaham’s unparalleled keys dancing in very exciting, melodic progressions, where there’s a charming balance of intimacy and exploration. The 3 chapters are especially expressive, with the finger acrobatics of “Piano Sonata in F Major, No. 12, K.332” being particularly stunning.

Disc 2, Volume 3, is equally meticulous, where Shaham’s strong attention to mood is quite luminous on “Piano Sonata A major”, as the keys radiate tremendous warmth amid the timeless delivery.

A highly technical affair, there’s an alluring emotional component to this body of work, and Shaham takes Mozart’s lead to allow for spontaneous, imaginative moments, which truly makes these pieces shine in a new light.

Travels well with: Orli Shaham- Mozart Complete Piano Sonatas; Josh Tatsuo Cullen- Scenes In Tin Can Alley