American Record Guide critic Alan Becker has a new rave review for Carol Rosenberger’s Theme & Variations recording:
“…it makes good sense that she bring our attention once again to her many pianistic attributes, and her enthusiastic notes add to this attractive release as well. Having been robbed of some of her most productive years by polio, Rosenberger has every right to remind us of what was, and we can rejoice in that discovery as well as her later rejuvenation. Her approach to Beethoven’s late sonata is very serious of purpose and makes not attempt to regale us with demonstrations of agility. While she has the technique, her approach is somewhat measured and stresses tonal purity and gorgeous tone. The Andante molto cantible (III) is certainly the high point of the sonata, and she makes it a gut-wrenching expression. Bursts of power are not underplayed, yet they convey power without pushing or distorting balance. … Schubert’s Impromptu is also deeply felt. The variations flow forth with an inevitability and grace achieved by only a few of her colleagues. Her Mozart could well serve as a model for many of today’s slick students; she achieves resplendent tonal colors and manages to cajole almost every nuance possible from her splendid sounding Bösendorfer. The famous ‘Alla Turca’ last movement need not defer to any.” —Alan Becker, American Record Guide, January/February 2016 Issue
