Plays Chopin & Liszt

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
These recordings, taped when Shura Cherkassky was in his early seventies, finds the irrepressible pianist in relaxed fettle. He tickles the ear with ravishing nuances and intriguing but not obtrusive inner voices. One might wish for more cumulative power and less fidgeting in the final climaxes, but piano buffs will find a lot to enjoy here. --Jed Distler

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No.3 In B Minor, Op.58: I. Allegro maetoso
Piano Sonata No.3 In B Minor, Op.58: II. Scherzo: Molto vivace
Piano Sonata No.3 In B Minor, Op.58: III. Largo
Piano Sonata No.3 In B Minor, Op.58: IV. Finale: Presto, non tanto
Mazurka No.36 In A Minor, Op.59 No.1
Mazurka No.37 In A-flat, Op.59 No.2
Mazurka No.38 In F-sharp Minor, Op.59 No.3
Nocturne No.4 In F, Op.15 No.1
Scherzo No.3 In C-sharp Minor, Op.39
Polonaise No.6 In A-flat, Op.53

Amazon.com's Best of 1999

Record-label politics prevented this awesome recording of Argentinean pianist Martha Argerich from being released for 34 years. The spitfire musician delivers a powerful set of Chopin's best-loved works that still sounds riveting today. Intense and gorgeous. --Jason Verlinde

Amazon.com essential recording

How can it be that a recording by one of today's indisputably unequaled pianists performing some of her prime repertory--made fresh within months of her triumph in the 1965 Warsaw International Chopin Competition--could languish for decades in the vaults before its official release? Chalk it up to the exclusivity clauses of rival recording companies and legal constraints from which not even Wotan with the help of Loge could extricate himself. Thankfully this belated EMI release--recorded in a few sessions at the Abbey Road studios--is finally available.

It's a significant complement to Argerich's other accounts of Chopin on disc. From the white-hot intensity of Argerich's way with the composer, you can easily extrapolate a sense of what had recently wowed the jury in Warsaw. The Argentinean pianist undertakes the Third Sonata as a vast, big-voiced, far-reaching statement that encompasses both molten power and moments of almost unbearably intimate lyricism (listen closely to her gestures of illumination in the Largo). With a characteristically unforced spontaneity, Argerich sounds the shattering chords that launch the finale (recorded in one take); her sense of flow in the Nocturne No. 4 is a perfect mesh for the illusion of improvising that is so central to Chopin. She commands the logic--both emotional and musical--of the composer's skittish turns in the Scherzo No. 3 and crafts three of the mazurkas into perfectly chiseled character pieces. The sheer force of Argerich's personality might seem overwhelming to those accustomed to a tamer Chopin--listen to how she dives into the A-flat Polonaise--but it's always at work dusting off tired clichés and uncovering the music's expressive wealth. For those who know about Argerich's artistry, this disc is indispensable; anyone who has yet to make that enviable discovery will find it (together with the Argerich anthology in Philips' Great Pianists series) a great place to begin. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

Lost is Found, finally.......2007-07-08

This Argerich Chopin performance, recorded by EMI in 1965 while she was actually under contract to DG is formidable for an artist so early in her career. Both the artistry and sound are superb and it's a shame we fans had to wait so long for this recording to appear. These Chopin performances completely justify the competition judges decision to award her the grand prize at the 1965 Warsaw International Chopin Competition. It's a collection must have!

Martha Argerich CD.......2007-06-12

Excellent service -- speedy, just as described, well-packaged. I'd definitely buy from this seller again.

Fabulous recording.......2007-04-12

A most interesting history in the liner notes and a fabulous recording. One of the best for a piano CD collection.

Excellent.......2007-04-12

Only one word: Excellent.
Though someone might have different feeling, I'm crazy on this 1965 recording.

A restored jewel in the Argerich catalog.......2006-09-03

If I had to pick a single CD to win awed admiration for Martha Argerich, this Chopin recital would be it. Only 24 when she made these long-suppressed recordings, Argerich's musicality and dazzling technqiue defy belief. Every ounce of praise for her Third Sonata is deserved--it's spontaneous, flexible, intense, by turns tender and declamatory. The most blessed quality is that she doesn't bang or harangue us--not always the case in later years. Her sense of urgency doesn't become eckless; the bursts of excitment aren't oerly explosive.

My only caveat would be for audiophiles. Although an Abbey Road studio recording, you get the feeling somewhat that Argerich is performing in a boomy hall. Also, in the loudest fortes there's mircophone shatter. For many listeners these drawbacks won't matter a whit, not in the face of an undisputed keyboard genius.

Gabriela Montero plays Chopin, Falla, Ginestera, etc. [Includes Bonus CD]

Average customer rating:

Gabriela Montero CDs
Non-professional Review
Absolutely Magnificent!
Improvisations Unbelievable!
A beautiful breath of fresh air!

Gabriela Montero plays Chopin, Falla, Ginestera, etc. [Includes Bonus CD]

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0009VK0LO
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

Moment Musical In E Mino Op. 12 No. 4
Prelude In G Op.32 No.5
Etude-Tableau In D Op.39 No.9
Prelude in D Flat Op.17 No.3
Prelude In E Flat Minor Op.16 No.4
Prelude In G Op.13 No.3
Etude in C Sharp Minor Op.42 No.5
La Vida Breve: First Spanish Dance - Manuel De Falla
Goyescas: Quejas O La Maya Y El Ruisenor
Danza Del Viejo Boyero
Danza De La Moza Donosa
Danza Del Gaucho Matrero
Nocturne In D Flat Op.27 No.2
Fantaisie-Impromptu In C Sharp Minor Op.66
Mephisto Waltz No.1

Tracks:

On Rachmaniov: Vocalise
On The Theme From Bach 'Goldberg Variations'
On Chopin: Nocturne In D Flat
On Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No.2
Inspired By Scriabin
On Duermete Mi Nino
In The Style Of Tango
On Granados: 'Quejas O La Maya El Ruisenor'
In The Style Of Bach
On Chopin: Prelude In A
'Improvisation in Blue (Gabriela Montero)'
'Song for Natalia and Isabella (Gabriela Montero)'

Customer Reviews:

Gabriela Montero CDs.......2007-06-12

Excellent service -- speedy, just as described, well-packaged. I'd definitely buy from this seller again.

Non-professional Review.......2007-03-27

Okay, I listen almost exclusively to classical music, but I do so simply for the pleasure and nothing more. I cannot tell you about Gabriela Montero's technique, and, when she improvises, I have no ability to judge the music's intrinsic value, authenticity, or whatever. I can only tell you this: while I own many dozens of albums, running the full spectrum of the classical genre, I value none of them above Montero's Bach and Beyond and her Piano Recital. Pure listening joy!

Absolutely Magnificent!.......2007-03-09

I first saw Gabriela Montero on 60 Minutes a few months ago and was taken by her playing ability as well as her ability to improvise on the classics. Ms. Montero's fingers fly over the keyboard, playing Rachmaninoff more dramatically and key-perfect than I've heard in a long time. I decided to purchase this CD and have not been disappointed.

Improvisations Unbelievable!.......2007-01-26

Gabriela Montero is a tremendous talent, both in standard classical repertoire, and improvisation. I have know her since she was a young girl, and she was by far the best pianist around, even then. She is an undersung pianist of our age, and should rise to the top very soon!

A beautiful breath of fresh air!.......2007-01-20

What a sheer delight hearing her play. I've never heard anyone quite like her. A phenomenally gifted player, and it's a rare treat to hear someone who defies pigeonholing. I had heard her on the radio, and knew I was onto something when her improvisation on a very simple theme gave me the chills. I love both CD's in this collection.

It's interesting hearing the negative response coming from some classical musicians and fans. At times it can seem to roughly follow the stages of grief as proposed by Kubler-Ross. I'm a professional guitarist, and it's funny because it's almost identical to how guitarists react to hearing another guitarist, but with an big class-conscious overlay (all very civilized, of course). Think of the "guitarist screwing in a lightbulb" joke. To paraphrase and extrapolate on what someone might say upon hearing her improvisation:

1. Shock: Wow, he's good. Oh, and it's a woman!? And you say it's improvisation??

2. Denial: That can't possibly be improvisation. Classical musicians don't engage in that untidy process. What she's playing must be written out, and I can tell! Don't ask, I just know it.

3. Anger: This stuff is no good. Only permanent music is of value through the ages, and that's why classical music (and only the European kind) is better than any other music. Besides, I can't improvise, so I reject it - and only THOSE people engage in improvisation.

4. Depression: She can play all the classical music, and seemingly can improvise, or at least pass her stuff off as such. Not only that, she's getting attention and money, and we're not. Why is the world unfair?

5. Acceptance: (sort of) Well, I guess she's selling CD's, and is becoming successful. She is, I hate to admit it, a great player. Even if she is a faker. Of course, they're begging my Muffy to become artist-in-residence in Spoleto....

The other reviewer has a point when he says that she may be viewed as a curiosity. Because she's crossing genres, people may not know what to make of it, and this often causes reflexive hostility. As an improvisor, I would agree that it's hard to say that something is 100% improvised - players tend to have pet phrases and favorite general ideas they return to. But to me, Gabriela's playing is at the highest level of skill, beauty, and feeling, whether improvising or playing written pieces.

Arthur Rubinstein plays Chopin [Box Set]

Average customer rating:

THE GREATEST OF CHOPIN PIANISTS
The greatest interpretation
Not such a great album
Love it.
RECORDING QUALITY IS A FACTOR

Arthur Rubinstein plays Chopin [Box Set]

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000002S59
Release Date: 1994-03-15

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Allegro maestoso risoluto
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Romanze (Larghetto) -
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Rondo vivace
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Maestoso
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Larghetto
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Allegro vivace
Waltz In C Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
Nocturne No. 1 In B Flat Minor, Op. 9 No. 1
Nocturne No. 2 In E Flat Major, Op. 9 No. 2
Nocturne No. 3 In B Major, Op. 9 No. 3

Tracks:

Nocturne No. 4 In F Major, Op. 15 No. 1
Nocturne No. 5 In F Sharp Major, Op. 15 No. 2
Nocturne No. 6 In G Minor, Op. 15 No. 3
Nocturne No. 7 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 1
Nocturne No. 8 In D Flat Major, Op. 27 No. 2
Nocturne No. 9 In B Major, Op. 32 No. 1
Nocturne No. 10 In A Flat Major, Op. 32 No. 2
Nocturne No. 11 In G Minor, Op. 37 No. 1
Nocturne No. 12 In G Major, Op. 37 No. 2
Nocturne No. 13 In C Minor, Op. 48 No. 1
Nocturne No. 14 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 48 No. 2
Nocturne No. 15 In F Minor, Op. 55 No. 1
Nocturne No. 16 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 No. 2
Nocturne No. 17 In B Major, Op. 62 No. 1
Nocturne No. 18 In E Major, Op. 62 No. 2
Nocturne No. 19 In E Minor, Op. 71 No. 1 (posth.)

Tracks:

Waltz In A-Flat Major, Op. 34, No. 1
Mazurka In F-Sharp Minor, Op. 6, No.1
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 6, No.2
Mazurka In E-Major, Op. 6, No.3
Mazurka In E-Flat Major, Op.6, No.4
Mazurka In B-Flat Major, Op. 7, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 7, No.2
Mazurka In F-Minor, Op. 7, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 7, No.4
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 7, No. 5
Mazurka In B-Flat Major, Op. 17, No.1
Mazurka In E-Minor, Op. 17, No. 2
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 17, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 17, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Minor, Op. 24, No. 1
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 24, No. 2
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 24, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Flat Minor, Op. 24, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 30, No. 1
Mazurka In B-Minor, Op. 30, No. 2
Mazurka In D-Flat Major, Op. 30, No. 3
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 30, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 33, No. 1
Mazurka In D-Major, Op. 33, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 33, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Minor, Op. 33, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 41, No. 1
Mazurka In E-Minor, Op. 41, No. 2
Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 41, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 42, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Major, Op. 50, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 50, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 50, No. 3

Tracks:

Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 56, No. 1
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 56, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 56, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 59, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 56, No. 2
Mazurka In F-Sharp Minor, Op. 56, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 63, No. 1
Mazurka In F-Minor, Op. 63, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Sharp minor, Op. 63, No. 3
Mazurka In G-Major, Op. 67, No. 1
Mazurka In G-Minor, Op. 67, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 67, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 67, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 68, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 68, No. 2
Mazurka In F-Major, Op. 68, No. 3
Mazurka In F-Monor, Op. 68, No. 4
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. Posth. (A son ami Emile Gaillard)
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. posth. (Notre temps)
Scherzi In B-Minor, Op. 20
Scherzi In B-Flat Minor, Op. 31
Scherzi In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 39
Scherzi In E-Major, Op. 54

Tracks:

Barcaolle In F-Sharp Major, Op. 60
Berseuse In D-Flar Major
Polonaise In C-Sharp Major, Op. 26, No. 1
Polonaise In E-Flat Major, Op. 26, No.2
Polonaise In A-Major, Op. 40, No. 1
Polonaise In C-Minor, Op. 40, No. 2
Polonaise In F-Sharp Major, Op. 44
Polonaise In A-Flat Major, Op. 53 (Heroic)
Polonaise In A-Flat Major, Op. 61 (Polonaise-Fantaisie)
Andante splanato & polonaise brillante In E-Flat Major, Op. 22

Customer Reviews:

THE GREATEST OF CHOPIN PIANISTS.......2007-03-01

These are the earlier discs of Rubinstein's Chopin, recorded by HMV in London during the 1930's. It is less complete than his later recordings for RCA - no Sonatas, no Ballades, no Etudes. The sound is naturally of its time - but in many ways more natural than the sharply-lit, slightly edgy piano sound RCA favoured in the 50's and 60's. Nevertheless, these are the Chopin performances I return to most.

Rubinstein's natural affinity with Chopin is legendary. He seemed always able to capture precisely the right degree of rubato at exactly the right moment in these pieces. And he had a unique ability in his countryman's music to balance the lyrical with the impassioned, what seems completely spontaneous with what is clearly deeply considered. The Nocturnes here are, I think, the best you'll hear anywhere on disc. In the greatest of them - the Opp.37 & 48 sets, for example - Rubinstein gets the contrast between the dreamy nocturnal outer sections with the darker, more impassioned central sections just right. These are not salon miniatures in his hands but big works, if not in length then in content. And no-one can match Rubinstein in the elusive diversity of this complete set of Mazurkas. The two Concerti both have Barbirolli as the sympathetic conductor, following Rubinstein's lead in the ebb and flow of phrases and whole sections of these gorgeous and often maligned works. Interestingly the recording of Concerto No.2 (actually the first composed) dates from before the pianist's famous withdrawal from public performance to reconstruct his technique and his approach, that of Concerto No.1 from after. Perhaps one can detect a touch more maturity and refinement in his approach to the latter, but they are both ravishing performances.

Many of the performances on these 5 discs are the greatest Chopin you're likely to hear. And the ear soon adjusts to the somewhat old-fashioned recorded piano sound. This is a highly desirable set for any lover of Chopin and/or great piano playing.

The greatest interpretation.......2007-02-17

The interpretation is stunning. Mono - but no matter for solo piano - and a wee bit hissy but still quite superb.

Not such a great album.......2007-01-12

This album was recorded from records as you can hear the scratches and skips. Don't recommend it!

Love it........2006-06-22

This is my favorite album. I think that not even Rubinstein's later recordings attain this quality of musical involvment.

There is a fair amount of background noise, but the music helps to forget it rather quickly overall.

RECORDING QUALITY IS A FACTOR.......2005-02-10

Otherwise, I would have given 5 stars. The fact that these have a hiss (and you can practically hear him close the piano on several numbers) should be mentioned. I guess we are spoiled to audio quality, but this is an expensive collection and this fact was glaringly omitted. That said, I have enjoyed the recordings, in spite of the very audible hiss.

Average customer rating:

AMAZING
An interesting release
Deep and Penetrating
I really wish DDD existed back then

Rachmaninoff Plays Chopin

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000003FOO
Release Date: 1994-08-16

Tracks:

Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, 'Funeral March': Grave; Doppio movimento
Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, 'Funeral March': Scherzo
Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, 'Funeral March': Marche funebre
Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, 'Funeral March': Presto
Nocturne In E-Flat, Op. 9, No. 2
Waltz In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
Waltz In A-Flat, Op. 64, No. 3
Ballade In A-Flat, No. 3, Op. 47
Mazurka In A Minor, Op. 68, No. 2
Waltz In E Minor, Op. Posth.
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 63, No. 3
Nocturne In F-Sharp, Op. 15, No. 2
Waltz In E-Flat, Op. 18 'Grande valse brillante'
Waltz In F, Op. 34, No. 3 'Valse brillante'
Waltz In D-Flat, Op. 64, No. 1 'Minute'
Waltz In B Minor, Op. 69, No 2
Waltz In G-Flat, Op. 70, No. 1
Scherzo In C-Sharp Minor, No. 3, Op. 39
Waltz In D-Flat, Op. 64, No. 1 'Minute'
Waltz In A-Flat, Op. 42, 'Two-Four'
Waltz In A-Flat, Op. 64, No. 3

Customer Reviews:

AMAZING.......2006-01-07

Rachmaninoff's performance of the Chopin B flat sonata is Monumental, and the greatest performance that exists.

Lawrence

An interesting release.......2005-07-29

I suspect part of the fascination in Rachmaninov's playing is due to his being part of that increasingly rare and illustrious breed: the pianist-composer. The Funeral March sonata on this disc is perhaps the most famous of all. Noble as it is, I wouldn't proclaim it the account to end all others. The trademarks of this musician's pianism are apparent: clarity, poise, faultless execution. As another reviewer noted, the artist takes liberties with some scores but always in a tasteful manner. The nocturnes and waltzes are not without a certain charm, but Rachmaninov was never one to wear his heart on his sleeve.

Deep and Penetrating.......2003-02-16

This transfer of Rachmaninoff, while far from perfect, is much more than acceptable. It is much better than what we have from Piano Library which contains 99% of the same thing. Rachmaninoff's understanding of music is deep and penetrating: being a composer himself, he understood the structure of the pieces so well.

Here each piece has it's own life and identity each with a focal point. It is water tight compact and yet very much natural and alive. But it is not natural in Arrau's way, still less as oppressive as Horowitz or Richter. It is somewhere in between, closer to Argerich but with more consistency and depth. And like Casals' playing, it keeps our attention from the first note up to its focal point until its very end. But unlike Casals, he touches our hearts. It is very emotional but never to the point of being sentimental. His Chopin may not be as neurotic as Cortot. Nonetheless, he sheds light on the dark and nervous side of Chopin so well: a very throbbing interpretation that is so unique.

Sure, he did have fingers of steel that helped him to bring out whatever colour or atmostphere as appropriate. And despite that fact that there are some minor alterations on the scores like his Chopin, he is one of the few pianists who could really show you every note on the score counts and, above all, how it counts...

So, come and listen to the pianist with "arms of steel and heart of Gold" in action. It's hard to imagine how a listener fails to be touched by his playing.

I really wish DDD existed back then.......2000-06-19

A good album but the transfer is terrible. It sounds like this CD was recorded with a mono microphone held at the speaker of an old phonograph. The amount of noise is so great that sometimes it is really hard to hear the soft parts over it.

Average customer rating:

This Kid's Good!
Kissin and Chopin are a perfect match
Again?
How is Kissin doing today?
Kissin - Wisdom with Age

Evgeny Kissin Plays Chopin

Manufacturer: Sony Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000KX0I54
Release Date: 2007-01-09

Tracks:

Polonaise in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 26, No. 1
Polonaise in E-Flat Minor, Op. 26, No. 2
Impromptu in A-Flat Major, Op. 29
Impromptu in F-Sharp Major, Op. 36
Impromptu in G-Flat Major, Op. 51
Fantaisie-Impromptu in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 66
Polonaise in C Minor, Op. 40, No. 2
Polonaise in A-Flat Major, Op. 53

Amazon.com

Recorded live, this Chopin program featuring three Impromptus, four Polonaises, and the Fantasie-Impromptu has all the electricity of a performance. Kissin, who captivated the world two decades ago as a sensational prodigy, is today a spectacular pianist and compelling personality. His virtuosity is by now taken for granted, but perhaps most extraordinary is his uncanny ability to change mood and expression instantaneously and to pace and build up climaxes. This is a matter not only of technique but of emotional concentration and involvement, yet it would be impossible without his mastery of touch, color, and nuance. Kissin's tone is beautiful: he can make the piano sing in long, sustained lines and his runs are brilliant and fleet but perfectly clear. The left-hand octaves in the A-flat major Polonaise are a miracle of speed and feathery lightness. As always, Kissin plays with great expressive and rhythmic freedom, but his liberties are not as spontaneous as they used to be: though poised, they stay the same in all repeats and are often excessive, as if they had become entrenched through too many performances. There is no hint of the improvisatory quality implied in the title "Impromptu." Can it be that Kissin's former sense of freshness and wonder has fallen victim to the pace of his career? --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

This Kid's Good!.......2007-04-25

Just saw Kissin at Orchestra Hall in Chicago, in a recital that included works by Schubert, Beethoven, Brahms and Chopin. The house was packed, and he played eleven encores (lasting nearly as long as the concert!). I haven't heard the Chopin disk (and I'll buy it), but I can't imagine the performance differs that much from the one I attended. Watching Kissin play, the keyboard seemed to "melt" and become something pliable for his hands to mold. Can any other artist play that range of dynamics, achieve a seamless legato and flesh out the harmonies, regardless of the technical difficulties of a passage? I doubt it. The Chopin was the highlight. In my opinion, his playing was overly indulgent in the slow movements of the Schubert, for example, and this wasn't a factor in the Chopin. Of course, it's a matter of taste- but if you don't think Evgeny Kissin is the greatest pianist of his generation, just wait. After all, the images of Horowitz, Rubenstein and Serkin we carry in our heads aren't exactly those of fresh faced kids!

Kissin and Chopin are a perfect match.......2007-03-26

For sheer technical ability Kissin is still among the very best and when coupled with his sensitivity to this composer's works it is hard to do better.

Again?.......2007-03-07

I know it may sound outrageous, but I think we had enough of these pieces. Why would anyone bother - especially if one happens to be as gifted and distinct a pianist as Kissin - to churn out one more recording of, for instance, Chopin's Polonaise Héroïque, if not for easy and big profits? Taking into account that - just to mention a few - such towering figures as Rachmaninov, Argerich, Horowitz, Rubinstein, Pollini, Yundi Li and even Kissin himself in the recent past (1994, 2000) have already been there, some of them several times, I guess his talent would be much better served if he only decided to give less-known composers and/or works a chance. It's actually far more easy than it seems, it's ultimately just a matter of imitatio dei - why not follow the steps of God himself who's out there committing to record works by Sorabji, Kapustin, Villa-Lobos, Alkan and even Godowsky's complete Études (which are basically Chopin boosted to higher voltages)? God has broken the path; it's time for the creatures to follow it. Now, if you don't even know who God is, I really feel sorry for you. :)

This recording suffers from the same problems and handicaps as many others which are put out in hundreds by the record companies: it adds nothing, absolutely nothing new to our understanding of these pieces. Kissin is neither original nor daring; he's utterly conventional, and his playing resembles that of many other pianists who tackled the Polonaises before him. And, truth to be told, I guess we already have the whole gamut of possible and plausible interpretations of these pieces; the whole ground has been very well covered. If you like aristocratic readings of the Polonaises, well, you have none other than Rubinstein; if you want to feel all their power and grandeur, Martha Argerich will send chills down your spine; but maybe you're a more introverted person who'd rather listen to an intimate account of these otherwise ''little epic pieces'' - well, here you've got none other than Horowitz! And there are many, many others who are worth listening to. There's no doubt Kissin's talent - i'm not one of those who think he's all hype. He's a serious, gifted and wonderful pianist who's still very young and hopefully will get to blossom to his fullest potential.

How is Kissin doing today?.......2007-03-01

It's been a great pleasure to follow Kissin from child prodigy to adult superstar, even though along the way there have been stumbles so far as musical growth goes. This live Chopin recital from 2004 earns raves here at Amazon and with the audience, which goes crazy at the end, but The Gramophone hated it, calling Kissin's four Polonaise performances "the most lugubrious on recrds." (They don't feel that slow, and it must be said that KIsssin takes all repeats.)

The pianism here is phenomenal, it goes without saying, in everything technical that could be imagined. Tone and touch are mesmerizing, control is superhuman, and so on. Since Kissin produced two great live Chopin recordings from Carnegie Hall for RCA, it's great to have new works in this recital from the Verbier Festival in Switzerland, which seems to have become a favorite among top-flight musicians.

I admit to being a bit uncomfortable with Kissin's current status; he is so prodigious that there's a risk of overpowering Chopin with dazzle and display. The Polonaises are not among Chopin's intimate works, yet they are so individual that interpreting them is dfficult. Pollini's only failure on CD in Chopin, as far as I'm concerned, was his overly aggressive disc of the Polonaises. Kissin is more flexible and yielding, and his forte inerjections aren't harsh. Therefore I like these versions very much, and the 'Heroic' Polonaise is particularly appealing in its rhythmic freedom.

If only the Impromptus sounded more spontaneous--as the Amazon reviewer says, maybe some of the wonder has gone out for Kissin. There's a veneer of impersonal expertise here--compare Kissin's readings to Yundi Li's on DG, who seems more personally involved in the poetry. The Fantasy-Impromptu is arresting, yet I miss the younger Kissin's freshness. We'll jsut have to see where this supreme pianist is headed. In sum, this is one of his best recent outings.

Kissin - Wisdom with Age.......2007-02-03

First off, this is a fascinating all-Chopin recital, and a worthy addition to the ever-growing Kissin discography. I recently read a less than enthusiastic editorial review of this record on another website (written by Jed Distler) which criticized Kissin's use of rubato (amongst other things), saying that it was somewhat sporadic and seemed to be without rhyme or reason. I can't say that I agree. The rubato which Kissin uses is totally compelling, and really helps to shed new light on these oft recorded pieces. Here we have Kissin melding the innovative and aristocratic playing of Arrau and Perahia, with the stone cold accuracy of Pollini; in other words, downright great Chopin playing.

I have been listening to Pollini's recording of the polonaises for years, but as soon as I heard op. 26 no. 1, I was in awe. It was as if I was hearing a completely new piece of music. The "heroic" polonaise, op. 53 gets a white-hot presentation; and although no one for me can match Horowitz in this piece, Kissin really gives a wonderful and distinctive performance. The impromptus are comparable to Perahia's famed recording, with Kissin giving each one an exact, yet heartfelt interpretation. The only weak-link for me was the impromptu op. 51 , which seemed to get a somewhat cold and straightforward performance; but this a minor weak spot, and should be a deterrent to none.

Any new Evgeny Kissin CD is bound to do well (in terms of selling). The reason for this is that Kissin really brings something new to everything he does, and this is evidenced through every one of his past records. He has a distinct tone that he extracts from the piano, just as Horowitz, Gould, Arrau, and many other of the greats did. You could always tell without looking when they were playing; I believe this is true of Kissin as well.

So, all in all, this is a great recital - truly stunning Chopin playing which would be a great addition in anyone's collection. As for the detractors, who say Kissin's better days have passed him by, well, hopefully this recital will help them reassess their position.

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli plays Mozart, Chopin, Brahms, etc. (Box) [Germany]

Average customer rating:

excellent but obscure!
The Art of Michelangeli

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli plays Mozart, Chopin, Brahms, etc. (Box) [Germany]
Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli
Manufacturer: Documents Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli Vol. 2 [Germany]
Beethoven: Piano Sonatas [Germany]
Lazar Berman Edition (Box Set)
Historic Russian Archives Emil Gilels Edition [Box Set]
Emil Gilels Plays Beethoven (Box Set)

ASIN: B0009QYPBA
Release Date: 2006-05-04

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.15 In B Flat Major, Kv450
Piano Quartet In E Flat Major, Kv493
Scherzo No.1
Scherzo No.2
Ballade No.1
Piano Sonata No.2, Op.35
'marche Funebre'
Fantasie In F Minor, Op.49
Waltzes
Mazurkas
Carnaval, Op.9
Faschingsschwank Aus Wien, Op.26
Piano Sonata No.11
Piano Sonata No.12
Piano Sonata No.32
Four Ballades, Op.10
Variations On A Theme By Paganini, Op.35
Children's Corner
Images I
Images Ii
Preludes
Livrei (Excerpts)
Italian Concerto In F Major, Bwv 971
Seven Sonatas
Sonata V In C Major
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op.54
Totentanz (Dans Macabre) For Piano And Orch., S126
Symphonic Variations For Piano And Orchestra
Concerto In A Minor, Op.16

Customer Reviews:

excellent but obscure!.......2007-02-09

I have all of michelangeli,s recordings on the bigger labels. deutsche grammopon,EMI these recordings are top rate. they are done from euro radio and tv shows. most all the matrial is from 1962-1990. the last disk was done in the forty's this disk is not very good but all the others are par excellence! the debussy images,the brahms.schumann,beethoven and most of the chopin,these recordings put the big labels to shame. this set is not a bargin its simply a giveaway! Buy it NOW!

The Art of Michelangeli.......2006-11-09

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
This 10-CD set represents the recordings of the great Italian pianist Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli, from the maestro's earlier, post-World War years to the 1990's, spanning half a century of outsanding pianism and musicianship.

Michelangeli was an eccentric, a truly special personality in the world of music who offered surprises and delights at every turn. His concert repertoire was insignificant and limited compared to those of his contemporaries Richter and Arrau, and he cancelled concerts at the slightest whims. His playing was equally unpredictable; it was at times extremely beautiful, colorful, and divinely expressive; on the other hand, it could also be robust, sturdy, and deafeningly powerful. His Debussy offered a transparent, watery atmosphere splashed with delicious sweetness and surreality, yet his Beethoven was direct and vigorous; his Chopin involved elements of both. Simply put, the art of Michelangeli was a fusion of sheer brilliance and an unmovable, forceful personality.

The track listings are as follows:
CD 1 - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (64:12)
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No.15 in B-flat Major, KV.450
Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, KV.493

CD 2 - Frédéric Chopin (76:48)
Scherzo No.2 in B-flat minor, Op.31
Ballade No.1 in G Minor, Op.23
Andante spianato et Grande Polonaise Brillante in E-flat Major, Op.22
Berceuse in D-flat Major, Op.57
Piano Sonata No.2 in B-flat Minor, Op.35
Mazurka in F-sharp Minor, Op.59/3
Valse in E-flat, op. posth.

CD 3 - Robert Schumann (57:45)
Carnaval, Op.9
Faschingsschwang aus Wien, Op.26

CD 4 - Ludwig van Beethoven (72:05)
Piano Sonata No.11 in B-flat Major, Op.22
Piano Sonata No.12 in A-flat Major, Op.26
Piano Sonata No.32 in C Minor, Op.111

CD 5 - Johannes Brahms (46:56)
4 Ballades, op.10
Variations on a theme by Paganini, Op.35

CD 6 - Claude Debussy (77:24)
Children's Corner
Images, Livres I & II
Préludes, Livre I (9 Excerpts)

CD 7 - Bach/Scarlatti/Galuppi (70:54)
Chaconne in D Minor, BWV 1004 (trans. Busoni)
Italian Concerto, BWV 971

Seven Sonatas

Presto in B-flat major
Sonata V in C Major

CD 8 - Frédéric Chopin (70:36)
Scherzo No.1 in B Minor, Op.20
Fantaisie in F Minor, Op.49
3 Valses
7 Mazurkas

CD 9 - The Concertos in Vatican City for Pope John XXIII (63:56)
Schumann: Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op.54
Liszt: Totentanz

CD 10 - Schumann/Franck/Grieg (74:51)
Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op.54

Symphonic Variations for Piano and Orchestra

Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op.16

Abbey Simon Plays Chopin's Etudes and Waltzes (Complete)

Average customer rating:

Dionysian temperament!
What else can I say??
What else can I say??
Splendid interpretation
Chopin a su mayor nivel

Abbey Simon Plays Chopin's Etudes and Waltzes (Complete)

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Simon Abbey: Chopin
Ravel: Complete Music for Solo Piano
Complete Works for Piano and Orchestra
Abbey Simon Play Chopin, Vol. 3
Abbey Simon Plays Chopin, Vol. 2

ASIN: B000001K5N
Release Date: 1996-10-22

Tracks:

Etudes, Op. 10: No. 1 In C
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 2 In A Minor
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 3 In E 'Tristesse'
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 4 In C Shrap Minor
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 5 In G Flat 'Black Key'
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 6 In E Flat Minor
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 7 In C
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 8 In F
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 9 In F Minor
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 10 In A Flat
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 11 In E Flat
Etudes, Op. 10: No. 12 In C Minor 'Revolutionary'
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 1 In A Flat 'Aeolian Harp'
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 2 In F Minor
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 3 In F
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 4 In A Minor
Etudes, Op. 25: No.5 In E Minor
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 6 In G Sharp Minor 'Etudes In Thirds'
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 7 In C Sharp Minor 'Cello'
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 8 In D Flat
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 9 In G Flat
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 10 In B Minor
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 11 In A Minor
Etudes, Op. 25: No. 12 In C Minor

Tracks:

Waltzes: No. 1 In E-Flat Op. 18
Waltzes: No.2 In A-Flat Op. 34, No. 1
Waltzes: No.3 In A Minor Op. 34, No. 2
Waltzes: No.4 In F Op. 34, No. 3
Waltzes: No. 5 In A-Flat Op. 45
Waltzes: No. 6 In D-Flat, Op. 64, No. 1
Waltzes: No. 7 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
Waltzes: No. 8 In A-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 3
Waltzes: No. 9 In A-Flat, Op. Posth 69, No. 1
Waltzes: No. 10 In B Minor, Op. Posth 69, No. 2
Waltzes: No. 11 In G-Flat, Op. Posth. 70 No. 1
Waltzes: No. 12 In F Minor, Op. 70 No. 2
Waltzes: No. 13 In D-Flat Op. 70, No. 3
Waltzes: No. 14 In A-Flat, B.I. 21
Waltzes: No. 15 In E, B.I. 44
Waltzes: No. 16 In E Minor, B.I. 56
Waltzes: No. 17 In A Minor, B.I. 150
Waltzes: No. 18 In E-Flat B.I. 133
Waltzes: 19 In E-Flat, B.I. 46

Customer Reviews:

Dionysian temperament! .......2006-11-11

Abbey Simon is an American pianist, gifted with astonishing skills and marvelous tune, an enviable technique and a vigorous temperament.

His Chopin is far to be widely known, but he is colorist and solvent player that will amaze you. He possesses imagination, expression, personality and vivid imagination, essential factors demanded to play Chopin efficiently.

Absolutely recommended.

What else can I say??.......2002-04-02

the program notes say it all: super-virtuoso. excellent performances of both etudes and waltzes. no technical problems present themselves, etudes and waltzes are both played perfectly. This disc is a great value.

What else can I say??.......2002-04-02

Splendid interpretation.......2001-12-26

I listened Abbey SIMON on a Philips record during 1970's years with the 2nd Beethoven concerto for piano. A few month later,
i dicovered Abbey simon with the CHOPIN music for piano and orchestra in 1974. After i found all CHOPIN'S recodings, and now, i buy the collection of Abbey SIMON'S cd records. The vyniles are nos pieces de collection as we say in FRANCE, and in PARIS, not possible to find those records. I think , in a few months , i will find PETER FRANKL'S integrale op the 16 Polonoaises de CHOPIN in the same collection

Chopin a su mayor nivel.......2000-09-07

De Abbey Simon se han dicho muchas cosas, pero nadie puede negar que se trata de uno de los pianistas más dotados de los últimos tiempos. Sus interpretaciones son muy llenas de sentimiento, y hacen que la música absorba al escucha de una forma tal que fácilmente puede olvidarse de que existe el mundo allá afuera. En esta colección de 2 discos, Simon nos presenta los Estudios Op. 10 y 25 de Chopin, así como los 19 valses que este compositor produjo a lo largo de su vida. La interpretación resulta fenomenal, y su vesión de los valses resulta superior a cualquier otra que haya escuchado anteriormente; si a esto añadimos un precio increíble por dos CDs (gracias al sello Vox), esta es una compra segura para quien admire la música para piano.

Average customer rating:

A special pianist
An Artist Enters the Ranks of Top Pianists

Ingrid Fliter Plays Chopin

Manufacturer: Video Artists Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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Ingrid Fliter Plays Beethoven & Chopin
Ingrid Fliter: Live in Recital
Vienna Recital
Dukas: Piano Sonata; Decaux; Clairs de Lune
Horizons - Leif Ove Andsnes

ASIN: B000CS45YW
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Customer Reviews:

A special pianist.......2007-05-14

Ingrid Fliter performed about 2 weeks ago on the campus of the University of Chicago. I went based on some advertising that mentioned how she won some competitions, had substituted for Martha Argerich, etc. This was her Chicago debut and our university has had several such notable debuts.

Her performance was nothing short of stunning. Not just in the technical sense but in her most compelling readings. She performed several Chopin pieces- I'm quite picky about Chopin and have a large collection of the "masters". Usually when I hear a new version, I run right back to Arrau, Cortot or others, but with Fliter, I felt no compulsion to do so.

I bought this CD at her concert, not expecting great performances (after all she is quite young and it was recorded some 4 years ago) but just to be in the line for her to sign it and to tell her how much I loved her performance. The CD is however extraordinary. She is an artist capable of developing and transmitting the most subtle nuances of Chopin that at least I am capable of grasping. And the recording of the piano is really fine. This is the only such review I have ever written.

Bruce Winstein, 5/13/07

An Artist Enters the Ranks of Top Pianists.......2006-03-18

INGRID FLITER. Who is Ingrid Fliter? The name was new to this listener until last night when she appeared as a 13th hour substitute for ailing Martha Argerich who was scheduled to perform the Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Los Angeles Philharmonic under the guest baton of Charles Dutoit. With Disney Hall filled to capacity to hear their adored Argerich, Fliter was under careful scrutiny. But by the time she had traversed the Beethoven there was absolutely no doubt in anyone's mind that here is a new talent destined to become one of the great poets of the piano.

A young Argentinean, Fliter possesses both physical beauty and extraordinary rapport with both the orchestra and the audience. But the revelation is her impeccable technique. She is in total control and finds the soul of the less frequently performed Beethoven #1 like few other artists with long careers on the stage. But enough of that eye opening experience. Fortunately, VAI knows quality when they hear it and this recording was made from a live concert at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and released just this year. This is an all (almost!) Chopin program in which Fliter performs Nocturnes No. 3 in B major and No. 8 in D flat major, Polonaise No. 5 in F sharp minor, Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Mazurka No. 40 in F minor, Scherzos No. 4 in E major and No. 2 in B flat minor, Fantasy-Impromptu in C sharp minor, Waltzes No. 5 in A flat major, No. 11 in G flat major, No. 1 in E flat major, and as an encore the Adiós Nonino Tango by Astor Piazzolla.

This is Chopin played with all the mastery of command of the technical hurdles and all the Romantic melodies both soaring and whispering. Fliter may be young but her soul is old. She is most assuredly an artist to watch. Hopefully some recording company will capture the magic she creates with her concerto performances...Highly Recommended. Grady Harp, March 06

Average customer rating:

Debussy A La Moravec
Manificent playing of great music at a bargain price
ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CD'S
Exquisite playing
Wonderful performances.

Ivan Moravec Plays Debussy & Chopin

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Chopin: Nocturnes
Chopin: Sonata in B-flat minor, Berceuse, etc.
Ivan Moravec Plays Beethoven
Chopin: 24 Preludes Ballade in F Minor
Moravec Plays Schumann & Franck

ASIN: B000001K47
Release Date: 1994-08-22

Tracks:

Image (Book 1): Reflets Dans L'eau
Image (Book 1): Hommage A Rameau
Image (Book 1): Mouvement
Image (Book 2): Cloches a travers les feuilles
Image (Book 2): Et la lune descend sur le temple qui fut
Image (Book 2): Poissons d'or
Prelude (Book 1, No. 6): Des pas sur la neige
Estampe: Pagodes
Estampe: Soiree dans Grenade
Estampe: Jardins sous la pluie

Tracks:

F Minor, Op. 63, No. 2
A Minor, Op. 68, No. 2
B Flat Major, Op. 7 No. 1
C Sharp Minor, Op. 30, No. 4
B Minor, Op. 33, No. 4
A Minor, Op. 34, No. 2
C Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
E Minor, Op. Posth
C Sharp Minor, Op. 26, No. 1
Polonaise Fantasie In A Flat major, Op. 61

Amazon.com

These two CDs were digitally recorded for LP release in 1982-83, and thus add up to just under 95 minutes. With playing on this level, though, they'd still be a bargain at almost any price. The color, shading, and imagination Ivan Moravec applies to Debussy makes the music glow and shimmer. His Chopin playing is some of the best in the business; sample the idiomatic rhythms of the Mazurkas, or the memorable journey he makes out of the Polonaise- Fantaisie. As it happens, the discs sell for a very low price (less than that of a standard full-price single disc), making this set a major bargain. --Leslie Gerber

Amazon.com

Ivan Moravec isn't a superstar in terms of having a glitzy career. But to critics and connoisseurs, he is one of the greatest pianists. His relatively few recordings are scattered among a variety of labels. This collection, from two early-eighties digital LPs, is particularly well recorded--important for a pianist with such wonderful tonal variety. The composers are two of Moravec's specialties, and he gives them consistently colorful, imaginative performances. The short timing (94:00) is compensated by the ultra-low price, making this set a great piano bargain. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Debussy A La Moravec.......2006-01-13

Short and to the point.
Hey go ahead and ignore my opinion, go buy this and forget Roge.
But after you buy this cd, then buy Roge, and you tell me which you prefer.
I even prefer Michelangeli(4 stars) over Moravec.

Manificent playing of great music at a bargain price.......2001-11-18

This is was the first Moravec recording that I purchased. I bought it despite some reservations by a friend who had heard the Vox LPs and whose opinions on music I take very seriously. He changed his tune when he heard this recording.

Where should I begin? Moravec's technique is fabulous. His articulation is crisp, and his tone is gorgeous. What's more, his personality is expressed here not by showboating but by his unerring ability to bring out the characteristics of Debussy and Chopin. With Debussy, the shocking dissonances are made clear but, at the same time, are sweetened by a lucious tone and a sensitivity to Debussy's underappreciated tunefulness. In the Chopin, Moravec's precise technique is coupled with his sensitivity to rhythm so that the different types of pieces (mazurkas, waltzes, polonaises) are indeed unmistakably different, each type pleasing in very different way.
And all this for (the price).

Those who want to hear more Moravec should immediately purchase his Chopin Nocturnes and his Schumann Kinderszenen, both of which are, in my view, the finest that have been recorded. Period.

Finally, I heard the pianist recently in Toledo (of all places) and spoke to him after his performance. He is a kind and thoughful fellow, and I enjoy supporting him by buying his recordings.

ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CD'S.......2001-03-23

This is truly one of the most beautiful CD's I own. I first heard of it about 15 years ago, before I owned a CD player: I read in a British classical music magazine that Moravec's playing of Chopin was inspired and that his playing of Debussy was reason enough to buy a disc player. The writer called CD's "silver cookies" and this disc was right at the top of his list of ten favorites. I have listened over and over and still continue to marvel at the subtleties of Moravec's pianism. Gorgeous and delicate, but these are not wispy interpretations which melt like cotton candy. Moravec plays with strength. I love the Chopin CD and think it honestly compares favorably with Rubenstein, but it is the Debussy interpretations that have stayed with me and that I come back to time and time again for a 45 minute vacation from life in New York City. The price listed above is unbeatable...about 1/2 of what I paid. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Exquisite playing.......1999-12-08

It irked the French of my Dad's generation that the greatest interpreter of Debussy piano music was Walter Gieseking - not exactly a Frenchman.

I don't know if it bothers the French today that the mantle has passed to a Czech. If it does, they should get past it, and just be grateful that anyone can play this beautifully.

The Chopin Mazurkas are I think as close to Moravec's heart as they were to the composer. He often offers them as encores at recitals, and invariably reduces the audience to hushed rapture.

All music lovers should snap up any Moravec album they come across - especially if it includes a Chopin Mazurka.

Wonderful performances........1999-11-16

I stumbled across this album several years ago and couldn't believe my good fortune. I've listened to recorded piano music for a number of years, and while I would by no means consider myself to have any special expertise, I consistently find Mr. Moravec to be the single most communicative pianist in my experience. This set, along with all of his recordings reissued on VAI that I've been able to hear, are simply wonderful.

Horszowski Plays Schumann, Mozart and Chopin

Average customer rating:

One of the greatest ever
Sheer Magic...
A Good CD

Horszowski Plays Schumann, Mozart and Chopin

Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Bach: French Suite No. 6; Schumann: Papillons; Chopin: Preludes; Mazurka
Bach Recital
Schubert Recital; Bach & Mozart Concertos
J.S. Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Complete

ASIN: B000005IZG
Release Date: 1992-05-28

Tracks:

Sonata In D Major, K. 576: Allegro
Sonata In D Major, K. 576: Adagio
Sonata In D Major, K. 576: Allegretto
Sonata in F major, K.332 -: Allegro
Sonata In F Major, K.332: Adagio
Sonata In F Major, K.332: Allegro assai
Mazurka in C major, Op. 24, No. 2
Nocturne in Bb minor, Op. 9, No. 1
Mazurka in B minor, Op. 33, No. 4
Arabeske, Op. 18
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Von fremden Laendern und Menschen
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Curiose Geschichte
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Hasche-Mann
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Bittendes Kind
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Glueckes genug
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Wichtige Begebenheit
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Traeumerei
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Am Camin
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Ritter vom Steckenpferd
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Fast zu ernst
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Fuerchtenmachen
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Kind im Einschlummern
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Der Dichter spricht

Amazon.com

These are nearly ideal performances, without exception. Mieczyslaw Horszowski's Mozart is played directly, but with a wealth of nuance that conveys every subtle flicker of emotion in the music. The comfortable way he plays the tricky finale of K. 332 is remarkable. Three Chopin pieces--two mazurkas and a nocturne--are kept within fairly strict rhythmic bounds, while almost imperceptible emphases point our attention towards every expressive intention. The two Schumann works are equally remarkable. Only a faint hint of blurring in moments of Kinderszenen, barely noticeable, provides a clue that the pianist was almost 96 when he recorded this exquisite disc. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

One of the greatest ever.......2007-06-15

Listen to this, or any other Horszowski recording, and you'll come to the inescapable conclusion that he is definitely one of the greatest pianists ever. His playing of Mozart is, in my opinion, without peer. The sonatas, on this disc, and the concertos, played elsewhere, are performed with such skill and beauty that they must be listened to.
I'm not sure what's "in the water" in Poland, but that country has produced some of the greatest ever, and we're lucky that Horszowski is one of the few that we can hear great digital-quality recordings of.

Sheer Magic..........2005-09-27

Mieczyslaw Horszowski lived to the age of 101 and enjoyed the longest career in the history of the performing arts. He never achieved, or aspired to, the notoriety of his friends Arthur Rubinstein and Vladimir Horowitz. But in his last decade, he became something of a cult figure, his performances and recordings sought out by those curious about this last link to the Golden Age of Piano Playing, and those simply wondering whether someone so elderly could still move his fingers.

As record producer Max Wilcox wrote, "the fact that his body is old is beside the point." Wilcox, who worked with Rubinstein, signed Horszowski to the Nonesuch label in the mid-1980s, and together they made four fine recordings. This one, from 1988, is the second of those four.

From the first bar of the two Mozart Sonatas, one's ears are caressed by the beauty and variety of Horszowski's tone. It's not for nothing that he was a pupil of the great Leschetitzky, who worked ceaselessly on tonal production. (We are fortunate that Horszowski lived long enough to pass this gift onto his pupils Murray Perahia and Radu Lupu.) Horszowski neither confines the sonatas to a small scale, nor hammers compositional points home (ALA Glenn Gould), but simply plays the music in a sensible tempo, with discrete rubato and dazzlingly even passage work--which serve to remind one that Mozart was a virtuoso pianist as well as a composer.

Horszowski's Chopin is ravishing, as befits a fellow Pole--whose mother studied with Karl Mikuli, himself a pupil of Chopin. Sometimes referred to as a Romantic pianist, Horszowski is Classically oriented in all respects save two: his way of phrasing a group of notes as a singer would, and his de-emphasis of the bar line. His Mazurkas have an irresistible rhythmic lilt, and I've never heard the C major Mazurka played better.

Horszowski brings tender longing to Schumann's Arabeske, with a beautiful legato touch. He gives the Kinderszenen as if experienced in childhood, rather than as an adult's reminiscence. I don't agree with this approach. What is the disillusionment of the last piece "the Poet Speaks" if not the work of an adult composer? But, within his conception, Horszowski's performance, innocent and with flashes of humor, works on it own terms.

Recorded at Philadelphia's Curtis Institute of Music, where Horszowski taught for fifty years, the sound is clear,
spacious, and natural.

A Good CD.......1999-01-01

I believe this CD should be noted for the excellent representation of Kinderszenen it holds. Horszowski's playing is swift and steady, a good heuristic look into the life of Shumann, who was estranged from his inamorata for what she called the pianist's "immaturity" (prompting him to write these pieces). His playing is quick and apt to grow on the listener.

Track Listings:

Track Listings

Beat Happening [Enhanced]

The Complete Lester Young Studio Sessions on Verve [Box set]

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Beethoven: Violin Sonatas Nos. 5, 8 & 9

A Procura Da Essencia - Ao Vivo 1975-1976

Amy Beach: Chanson D'Amour

B.D. Plays Classics [Import]

Alejandro Fernandez

A Bailar, Vol. 1

Let Me Make Love to You

Elemental Chill 1: Fire