Ivan Moravec Plays Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms

Mozart doesn't seem to be Ivan Moravec's best composer. His performances of these pieces are superbly played and thoroughly convincing, but they are written rather large on the page. The dynamics and contrasts often seem a bit exaggerated for Mozart. This playing will appeal mostly to those who find most modern Mozart performances too timid. The fillers on this disc are less controversial: two exquisitely played Brahms Intermezzi and two Beethoven Bagatelles, including a charming "Für Elise." Not the most compelling item in this series of Moravec reissues, but many will treasure it just for its best moments and the still-impressive sound. --Leslie Gerber