Glorious Schubert, if you can find it

It's too bad this release is not readily available in the U.S. (currently only expensive "Used" imports from Amazon marketplace sellers). It is easily available, however, at a reasonable price by ordering directly from Amazon UK (amazon.co.uk). And it is worth it because it is the only set that I can find to couple together these fabulous performances of the two Trios. Each trio can be found separately elsewhere, but illogically coupled - either with other Schubert items (a symphony or quintet) or other unrelated chamber music (a Beethoven quintet, for example). The trios obviously belong together and make a splendid coupling. Yes, they make for short playing time, as they have to spill onto 2 CDs (total playing time in these readings is 83 minutes, just over the maximum which can usually be squeezed onto one CD). But when Sony prices it correctly (2 for the price of 1, as here) it makes perfect sense for the consumer. And the folks in charge of their RTL series have done just that, at least in Europe.

There have been a number of worthwhile releases in this RTL series, many of which contain recordings which are not readily available elsewhere. These Schubert performances are definitely worth seeking out. They are absolutely glorious performances, beautifully recorded (and remastered) on this set, and an excellent value if you buy directly from Europe.