Barber Stands Apart

Barber’s solo piano music is not extensive, but it is amusing and witty; in Pollack’s authoritative performances it occupies just 72 minutes’ playing time. Except for the extraordinary Piano Sonata of 1949, however, all this attractive, virtuosic music remains steadfastly lightweight; it could give eclecticism a bad name. Still, Pollack makes it all sound important, embracing the sonata wholeheartedly, using deep resources and myriad details. The lighter material he imbues with elegance.