Franck began work on his First Piano Trio in F sharp minor while still studying at the Paris Conservatory. It was completed in 1841 and is in three movements. The outer movements are written on a grand scale. The first movement, Andante, begins almost inaudibly and for its first half flows gently and slowly like a large sluggish river. One might say that we aurally witness the brick by brick construction of the massive edifice. Little by little the emotional temperature of the music is raised until it finally reach an explosive climax towards the end of the movement. The second movement, Allegro molto, is a scherzo. It begins in a powerful, but somewhat plodding fashion. But as the music is developed, it becomes more fleet of foot. The finale, Allegro maestoso, explodes with two powerful chords before the almost orchestral first theme is splashed upon a huge musical canvas. The music at times with its tremendous explosive power pushes the limits of chamber music, yet at other times it exhibits a charming, intimate delicacy. - http://www.editionsilvertrust.com/franck-cesar-piano-trio1.htm