There are artists who prefer to perform live, and then there is Jimin Oh-Havenith (1960). The South Korean pianist prefers to record CDs. Following an internationally acclaimed series of albums featuring music by Robert Schumann, Brahms Solo Piano Works, a release containing an extensive Brahms anthology, is scheduled for 1 November.

The German label audite presents [….] a set of three CDs featuring character pieces, three major variations and an arrangement of Bach’s Chaconne. The particularly successful recordings were made in the Leibniz Hall in Hanover in November 2024.

The connection to earlier Schumann recordings is clear. The first CD contains variations on a theme by Robert Schumann, Opus 9. Based on the expressiveness shown here, I can deduce how successful her Schumann selection has been. However, I began listening to Jimin’s playing with the impressive interpretation of the Chaconne at the beginning of the second CD. […]

The touch is remarkably even in colour and allows the haunting music to speak for itself. The phrases sound well thought out and sing out. […]. Jimin Oh-Havenith is equally adept at interpreting the poetry of Johannes Brahms. This is clearly evident in the Four Ballads, Opus 10. The exciting undertone remains a recurring theme throughout. The substantial Second Ballad in D is reminiscent of the Barcarole of Frédéric Chopin and Felix Mendelssohn. The middle section, on the other hand, speaks the capricious language of Schumann.

Speaking of moodiness: the Third Ballade in B minor mixes rhythmic contrasts with delicate bell tones. It is all very evocative. It is a real challenge for the performer, but she keeps a cool head and brings in the necessary nuances. The Korean pianist also masters the lighter side of romantic Brahms well. The Sixteen Waltzes, Opus 39 – played immediately after the stormy Two Rhapsodies, Opus 79 – sparkle from the loudspeakers.

While the third CD features piano pieces op. 76, 118 and 119 as well as intermezzi, the first CD is dominated by the great variation works, namely opus numbers 24, 9 and 21, No. 1. It is impressive how the pianist combines the language of the Baroque with the spirit of Romanticism in the monumental Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Opus 24. The result? A cheerful Handel-esque Brahms, played by an artist who harmonises the heritage of early music with the way Brahms’ style is interpreted in our time.

Breathtaking. I am therefore very excited about the next release. What will the Korean artist present next on the quality label from Detmold?

(Maarten-Jan Dongelmans, gelderlander.nl, 11.10.2025) (translated from Dutch)