The concert by the Lillibridge Ensemble with Madeleine Forte was a pleasure from first to last. Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” sonata was played with—barely repressed, youthful glee. I do not misspeak; despite the fact that the pianist is in her ninth decade and the violinist likewise a mature artist, the verve and spirit with which the piece was rendered made for joyful listening. The finale—a no-holds-barred gigue—danced throughout, with the performers having every bit as good a time as the listener.

The Schumann Piano Quintet, Op. 44, is likewise a triumph. The five musicians here offer a full spectrum of Romantic characterizations: daydream-like continuity, virtuosity, springlike renewal and charm, Gypsy-like dance impetus, etc. etc. One wishes to have been at this concert; the electricity communicates even on recording, and such knowledgeable interpretation is to be cherished, and listened to repeatedly, with joy.

Jonathan Bellman