ARCHIVE CHOICE
Spirit of greatness
This rare studio recording by Annie Fischer encapsulates her childlike sense of wonder
Schumann Schubert
Schumann: Piano Sonata No. 1; Schubert: Four Impromptus D935
Annie Fischer (piano)
ICA Classics ICAC5178 62:00 mins
It’s hard to put your finger on what makes Hungarian pianist Annie Fischer’s playing so compelling. For Maurizio Pollini it was the sense of childlike simplicity, immediacy and wonder, while Sviatoslav Richter admired is breathtaking, and while the has a couple of jumpy moments, the performance as a whole is an essential addition to Fischer’s discography, in excellent sound. The recording of Schubert’s D935 Impromptus is narrower, but the only alternative I know is a concert bootleg in poor sound. After listening to this, you’ll know why Annie Fischer’s playing is special.
