Medtner - Sonata in F Minor Op. 5 (Tozer, Debargue)

Medtner’s Sonata in F minor, Op. 5, is the first sonata Medtner composed. This sonata shows some influence of Scriabin and Rachmaninoff, however, its very original and already features some of the genius Medtner’s craftmanship. Even though not representing the later works of the composer, Medtner gaining in subtlety and complexity in the years, this work is already particularly impressive, and clearly shows Medtner’s ability to compose pieces with a total mastery of the structure. The first movement is dramatic and already seems to feature tale-like Medtner style. Then, the second movement is an intermezzo, darker than the first movement and march-like. The third movement is marked “Largo divoto“ and make the transition with the fourth movement with an epic maestoso climax. The fourth movement is absolutely incredible : an unstoppable flow, a diabolic race, getting crazier and crazier until the final measures : an explosive, jubilant end. The two performances left me speechless. There