Because the sonatas in this collection are fragmentary, they are not often performed. That's a shame since they include some of Schubert's most venturesome music, with intimations of Beethoven and suggestions of what was to come in the work of Schumann, Chopin and others. And if it doesn't sound particularly experimental to modern ears, it is nonetheless compelling stuff.

Pianist Gottlieb Wallisch, though only in his mid-twenties, displays great maturity in his interpretation of the music. His technique is beyond reproach and he possesses an admirable ability to keep the music interesting without indulging in eccentricity.

Though these are not among Schubert's better-known sonatas, they would make an ideal introduction to the composer's piano music for anyone new to it.