Prokofiev: Piano Concertos 2 & 3

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Prokofiev's works have been categorized as barbaric, eclectic, ironic, romantic, post-romantic and anti-romantic, neoclassical, sarcastic, cosmopolitan, cold, industrial, lyrical, full of adrenaline, epic, schizophrenic... It looks like he cannot perfectly match any box our musicologists have been attempting to put him into. It is interesting, that Prokofiev never was paid mechanical royalties by American publishers and record labels during his lifetime, being discriminated against as a Soviet citizen.

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major, Op. 10: 1. Allegro brioso
Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major, Op. 10: 2. Andante assai-
Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major, Op. 10: 3. Allegro scherzando
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: 1. Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: 2. Andante
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: 3. Moderato
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: 4. Vivace
Piaon Concerto No. 5 In G Major, Op. 55: 1. Allegro con brio
Piaon Concerto No. 5 In G Major, Op. 55: 2. Moderato ben accentuato
Piaon Concerto No. 5 In G Major, Op. 55: 3. Toccata: Allegro con fuoco
Piaon Concerto No. 5 In G Major, Op. 55: 4. Larghetto
Piaon Concerto No. 5 In G Major, Op. 55: 5. Vivo

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: 1. Andantino
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: 2. Scherzo: Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: 3. Intermezzo: Allegro moderato
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: 4. Allegro tempestoso
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major, Op. 26: 1. Andante -- Allegro
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major, Op. 26: 2. Terna con variazioni
3. Allegro, ma non troppo

Amazon.com

During the 1970s, Vladimir Ashkenazy recorded virtually the entire standard piano repertoire, largely successfully. Then he turned to conducting, at which he's steadily become more successful. Although his initial efforts on the podium were not greeted with universal acclaim, you've got to respect the fact that he moved onto something new rather than attempting to revisit the same music again and risk not doing it nearly as well. Among his complete editions was this set of Prokofiev piano concertos, and they are among the best things that he did. At two discs for the price of one, it's a fine way to acquire all of these exciting works. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant sonics and fine, assured playing.......2006-07-13

By any standard this is very good Prokofiev playing. Ashkenazy strikes me as one of the most Westernized of Russian pianists, and his approach here, seconded by Previn's conducting, avoids rawness and astringency in favor of combined lyricism and strength. Perhaps because Decca's sound is so natural, the piano remains limpid and sparkling throughout--don't expect volcanos and thunder a la Argerich and Richter.

The only real shortcoming is that these works can use a lot of what Ashkenazy leaves out: bite, wit, irony, and brash attack. Concerto #2 is a specialty of this pianist and comes off beautifully--its lyricism suits him. Concerto #1 seems too middle-of-the-road, which can also be said of the left-hand concerto #4, but the most familiar work, Concerto #3, is authoritative and strong throughout. Previn seems more alert in this work, too.

I should mention that although Ashkenazy's approach is much less wild than Argerich and Richter, the Gramophone described these recordings as overflowing with 'panache, swagger and firebrand audacity.' I guess it all depends on where you're coming from.

Monochrome austerity.......2006-06-15

Although the remastering job done by Decca was terrible, Ashkenazy comes through with fine playing. He plays all 5 concerti well, although 1 and 2 stand out as the best for me. As one would expect, Ashkenazy plays his compatriot's piece with generous sympathy. He plays in a Prokofievian style avoiding any sort of color or singing tone. It is nevertheless ravishing playing.

In addition to the fine rubatos here and there, it is played on an even level, without a singing tone. It is by far a monochromatic reading with no color or excessive dynamics. Austerity is paramount also with no voluptuousness.

I love the second concerto most, and Ashkenazy's fine, sensible tempi stand out. It is not hurried or rushed playing with no lethargy either.

Music fan/July2/2003 and John Coughlin's revviews.......2006-03-11

I totally agree with these 2 reviews

I believe the fault here lies more with Previn, and thus holds back Ashkenazy "somewhat", as Ashkenazy is not stellar as one would expect.
, There are some high points, but overall I strongly agree with A Music Fans recommend of Krainev, the finest set on record.Yes I've heard all avaliable recordings in comparison.
If you like this set then OBVIOUSLY you will vote on my review as follows:
, no this review was not helpful
But at least I'm truthful, w/o the hype.
Besides I've heard all the avaliable, while others that promote this set has not.

Idiomatic piano, shrill strings.......2006-02-11

Ashkenazys playing has a certain "definite" (slightly clanky and strutting) style to it. For example the last part of cto3 mvt2, it is explicit and playful, other interpreters miss this out. And the beginning of cto3 mvt3, it sounds idiomatic/ folklore to me, (Russian, or Klezmer, or just a song and dance man, I don't know which). I like his playing better than any other's in these works. Sadly enough, the shrill strings deprive the recordings of their beauty, especially unfortunate in cto 3. If the orchestral tone of this recording could be restored, it would make me so happy.

In the meantime, I enjoy the Janis/Kondrashin cto 3. It seems to have similar qualities as Ashkenazy. For cto 2, I enjoy Baloghova/Ancerl/CzechPO on Supraphon.

Magnificent achievement!.......2005-02-02

I have this recording of all five Prokofiev concertos. The rapport between soloist and conductor is first rate. The fact that Andre Previn is an excellent pianist helps mould a great understanding and the fact that both soloist and conductor got on so well helps so much.
Vladimir Ashkenazy played all the concertos very brilliantly.He doesn't overcook the interpretation and it sounds better for it.His recording of the second concerto is amazing. Remember he used that with his New York debut in the fifties with Bernstein. I find this collection to be such an achievement. I thoroughly recommend this CD.

Tchaikovsky: Piano Concertos 1, 2 & 3 - Prokofiev: Piano Concerto 5 - Bartok: Piano Concerto 2 - Emil Gilels, Sviatoslav Richter, Lorin Maazel

Average customer rating:

A classic Tchaikovsky Second Concerto, plus astonishing Richter

Tchaikovsky: Piano Concertos 1, 2 & 3 - Prokofiev: Piano Concerto 5 - Bartok: Piano Concerto 2 - Emil Gilels, Sviatoslav Richter, Lorin Maazel

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Sofia Recital 1958

ASIN: B000EMSIBM
Release Date: 2006-05-02

Tracks:

I. Allegro Non Troppo E Molto Maestoso - Allegro Con Spirito - New Philharmonia Orchestra
II. Andantino Semplice - Prestissimo - Tempo I - New Philharmonia Orchestra
III. Allegro Con Fuoco - New Philharmonia Orchestra
I. Allegro Brillante - New Philharmonia Orchestra
II. Andante Non Troppo - New Philharmonia Orchestra
III. Allegro Con Fuoco - New Philharmonia Orchestra

Tracks:

I. Allegro Brillante - New Philharmonia Orchestra
I. Allegro Con Brio - London Symphony Orchestra
II. Moderato Ben Accentuato - London Symphony Orchestra
III. Toccata (Allegro Con Fuoco) - London Symphony Orchestra
IV. Larghetto - London Symphony Orchestra
V. Vivo - London Symphony Orchestra
I. Allegro - Sviatoslav Richter
II. Adagio - Sviatoslav Richter
III. Allegro Molto - Sviatoslav Richter

Customer Reviews:

A classic Tchaikovsky Second Concerto, plus astonishing Richter.......2006-06-08

The reissue gods are smiling. This bargain Gemini two-fer contains four superlative concerto recordings--the Tchaikovsky Second and Third with Gilels, the Prokofiev Fifth and Bartok Second with Richter. The conductor throughout is Lorin Maazel, definitely on best behavior, and the orchestras vary between the LSO (Prokofiev), New Philharmonia (Tchaikovsky), and the Orchestre de Paris (Bartok). EMI's early Seventies analog sound is bright and forward. The perspective on the piano is natural with Gilels, but as usual, Richter asked to be miked more up close.

Gilels had already made a magisterial Tchaikovsky First with Reiner in 1955 (RCA) when he first stormed West out of Russia, and he would go on to make one just as great in 1980 with Mehta (Sony). This version from 1973 is let down by Maazel's less-than-committed acompaniment, which moves too glibly and quick in the first movement especially. But the Second and Third Concertos are another story. Gilels makes the best case ever for the former work, despite the usual cuts. Maazel livens up, giving us springy rhythms and elegance, while Gilels is polished marble and power. I will be satisfied to own this one version for life, I'm sure.

On CD 2, Richter returns to one of his favorites, the Prokofiev Fifth concdrto, which he had already recorded in 1959 to universal acclaim--this was his time to roar out of Russia and astonish the West. This remake offers somewhat different tempos but the same astonishing solo work. For me, the main distinction is Maazel's razor-sharp, brilliant conducting and the virtuoso playing of the London Sym., wwhich far surpasses the earlier reading on DG. The same holds true for the Bartok Second, where Richter takes a fiendishly difficult, percussive piano part and makes it speak and sing as never before. Pollini is equally riveting in this work but not nearly as approachable. Officially, Richter never recorded the two most popular concertos from these composers, the Prokofiev and Bartok Third. That's a shame, but these great recordings, along with Gilels's' contribution, make this an unmissable bargain.

Average customer rating:

Solid performance and great value
Great collection and great value
No brainer -- buy it!

Prokofiev: Complete Concertos
Sergey Prokofiev , Vladimir Ashkenazy , Joshua Bell , Lynn Harrell , Andre Previn , Charles Dutoit , and London Symphony Orchestra
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000076GYI
Release Date: 2003-01-14

Customer Reviews:

Solid performance and great value.......2007-02-15

This set contains almost all Prokofiev's concertos. Contrary to what is advertised as "Complete Concertos", it omits Prokofiev's early work "Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 58". Although a large amount of thematic material is reused in the later piece "Sinfonia Concertante for cello & orchestra in E minor, Op. 125", there are really substantial differences. (Traditionally, when a set is advertised as "complete", it will contains at least all works with Opus numbers.) But really, Op. 58 is not performed in the concert halls these days. (At least, none that I am aware of.) If you are really interested in comparing these 2 works, you may consult, e.g. Chandos recording "The Unknown Prokofiev".

I like the performances here. For each individual piece, there are performances closer to my heart. For example, Richter's Piano Concerto in G and Argerich's Piano Concerto in C., Heifetz's Violin Concerto in g minor, besides those mentioned in other 2 reviews. (By the way, Rostropovich's Sinfonia Concertante is now available in DVD from EMI Classic Archive 15.) However, if you are looking for solid performances at an affordable price, hesitate no more! This set is for you.

Highly recommended.

Great collection and great value.......2006-10-09

This 3-CD set includes all of Prokofiev's concertos in one place. The best part is that it includes Ashkenzy and Previn's perfomances of the piano concertos- generally considered the best on recording.

Bell's perfomance of the violin concertos and quite good, maybe not the best, but Lynn Harell's cello renditions are excellent.

Highly recommended.

No brainer -- buy it!.......2004-08-22

This is a great and inexpensive introduction to the concerti of Sergei Prokofiev. And there's not a boring piece--or performance--in the box. I'm generally not a big Ashkenazy fan these days, but many of his earlier recordings were often very fine, and these are among them. His direct, declamatory way of played works to the advantage of the music here as well. He seizes these works by the horns, and the results are spectacular. Previn and the LSO never sounded better--for those who are familiar mostly with the later Previn, somewhat burned out and sluggishly leading the RPO or LAPO, these recordings will be a revelation. From the mechanical workings of No. 1 to the agitated fury of No. 2 to the quicksilver lithe of No. 3 to the enigma that is No. 5, these are great performances that manage to hit the mark while being very middle-of-the-road. (I don't mean middle-of-the-road in a negative way.) You'll notice I didn't mention No. 4, which has never really worked for me. As far as left-hand concertos go, listen to Ravel's.

The violin concerto is very fine, but it won't displace either Oisktrakh (a tall order, I admit) or, believe it or not, Perlman, with Rozhdestvensky and the BBC Symphony. The two cello concerti are tremendously exciting compositions that deserve to be played a lot more often than they are. Written for Rostrapovich, they are given credible readings by Harrell here, though I wish Rosty's performances were available (other than Op. 132 in an expensive 13-CD box) to show you you're *really* supposed to burn up these works. There aren't a whole lot of other performances of either of them, so you'll have to settle for these.

Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos; Overture on Hebrew Themes

Average customer rating:

Not only for the performances and the recording quality --
Sheesh
I guess the score doesn't matter
Piano could stand out a little more
awesome and terrifying

Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos; Overture on Hebrew Themes

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos

ASIN: B000002S09
Release Date: 1992-09-29

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: I. Allegro Brioso
Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: II. Andante assai
Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: III. Allegro scherzando
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: I. Andantino - Allegretto
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: II. Scherzo (vivace)
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: III. Intermezzo (allegro moderato)
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: IV. Finale (allegro tempestuoso)
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: I. Andante - Allegro
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: II. Theme et variations
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: III. Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': I. Vivace
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': II. Andante
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': III. Moderato
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': IV. Vivace
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: I. Allegro con brio
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: II. Moderato ben accentuato
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: III. Toccata (allegro con fuoco)
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: IV. Larghetto
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: V. Vivo
Overture on Hebrew Themes, Op. 34
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 1. Lentamente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 2. Andante
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 3. Allegretto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 4. Animato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 5. Molto giocoso
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 6. Con eleganza
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 7. Pittoresco
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 8. Commodo
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 9. Allegretto tranquillo
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 10. Ridicolosamente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 11. Con vivacita
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 12. Assai moderato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 13. Allegretto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 14. Feroce
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 15. Inquieto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 16. Dolente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 17. Poetico
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 18. Con una dolce lentezza
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 19. Presto agitatissimo e molto accentuato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 20. Lento irrealmente

Customer Reviews:

Not only for the performances and the recording quality --.......2005-12-07

-- I even like the cover art!

Sheesh.......2003-11-05

I'm reading the reviews here because I just adore this recording and wonder why it's so rarely the recommended choice in CD guides, etc... Maybe there are individual moments in other recordings that surpass individual moments here, but as a whole I don't think any of the other sets are nearly as effective.

But anyway - the review below really annoyed me so I just wanted to weigh in: Beroff's is a really lovely rendition of the Visions Fugitives, and the "ppp" in question (that prompted my fellow reviewer to impress us all with his lordly inability to tolerate philistinism by hurling his CDs into the trash like the filth they are) - ahem - the "ppp" in question applies WITHOUT ANY DOUBT only to the inner voice - I don't know what edition Mr. Landkamer has, but the two that I just looked at both make special effort to place the "ppp" on the page in a way that communicates this. It also bears mentioning that this "ppp" does not appear in the first edition at all.

In conclusion: this set is an amazing deal and, regardless of what people say about Ashkenazy or Argerich or Richter or whomever else, is utterly satisfying. It's one of the few recordings of Prokofiev I've heard where the performance is GENUINELY CONVINCED of the idea that this music is utterly coherent and human. Even supposedly "sensitive" Prokofiev performances often underestimate the fluidity of his musical expression and decide to let things seem thorny and chaotic rather than doing the work necessary to clarify the enigmatic elements. Beroff and Masur are so in tune with the spirit of Prokofiev's screwball jokes and whimsically meandering emotions that you feel you're hearing the piece direct from the composer. Very rare thing, that. There are no more and no fewer fireworks in these performances than Prokofiev put in the score - which is plenty! - and I don't know about you but that's how I like my classical recordings.

I guess the score doesn't matter.......2003-04-26

A few minutes ago, for lack of anything better to do, I put on the Visions Fugitives as played by Michel Beroff on this CD. In bar 14 there is a two-note pickup starting a repeat of the opening melody, here marked "p semplice". Then, on beat 1 of the next bar, the marking is "ppp" implying that the repeat of the theme is to *begin* like a routine restatement but then shift without warning into a new, quieter dreamlike realm. Beroff makes ABSOLUTELY NO CHANGE at the ppp. It might as well not be there. These CD's are about to go into the trash.

There, gone.

Addendum (5/31/03)...I purchased another recording of Visions Fugitives, by Boris Berman, and he played this part the same way. Looking again at the score, I think I can see why...the ppp is being interpreted as applying only to the chromatically winding inner voice. I'm not certain that's right, but it's at least not completely unreasonable. Sorry, Michel, I take it all back.

(11/28/03) in response to my courageously anonymous fellow reviewer ("music fan" above) the edition I have is MCA and the ppp is placed between the upper an lower staves but somewhat above-center. I'm not sure this qualifies as a special effort to communicate the intent.

Piano could stand out a little more.......2002-09-21

I agree with other reviewers this is a very good recording, of very difficult works. But it is especially good for the orchestral part. I am not saying Beroff is not a good pianist dont get me wrong. I am just saying there is better.
For the piano (and those are PIANO concertos my friends :) I have to say that I like the Ashkenazy/Previn recording better especially for #2 and #3 The piano sounds much clearer and less hesitating. The opening of 4th movement of #2 for example is 100 times better as played by Ashkenazy. Those chords are so much more precisely dropped. The orchestra though in many passages is more overwhelming (as it should be in this piece) in the Beroff/Masur recording.
If you want the complete set. Get both this recording and the Ashkenazy/Previn. They complement one another really well.
Now if you want the best recording of #3. You want to get the Argerich/Abbado recording. It ROCKS its is way above any other. Better rythmic precision , better phrasing, faster tempo. It is just amazing.

awesome and terrifying.......2002-09-21

This CD is another example of good price, comprehensiveness, and outstanding quality combining to make a powerhouse recording. I cannot overstate how dazzling Beroff's performance is. To hear pianistic technique at its pinnacle, just listen to the cadenza of the Second Concerto's opening movement--it'll take your breath away (you'll swear that it cannot be played by just a single player--examining the score will compound the disbelief). Beroff's swift hammering, mastery of dynamics, and perfect grasp of both Prokofiev's wit and rage, will have you coming back to this CD set for years. Concerto No. 3, by the way, is the best performance I've heard besides that given by Martha Argerich. With expert performance by Maestro Masur and the Gewandhaus Orchestra, these five neoclassical works have rarely received such musical justice. The second CD also features Prokofiev's delightful ethnographic chamber piece, "Overture on Hebrew Themes," as well as his solo piano work, "Fugitive Visions" (not quite as notable as, say, his late sonatas). I consider this CD set one of the best in my collection, and I recommend it without any reservations.

Sergei Prokofiev: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 4/Overture, Op. 34

Average customer rating:

Prokofiev 2nd - Surprised was not better
Amazon reviewer makes bold statement...
Lacklustre, indeed
lackluster but well recorded
Best Prokofiev Recording Available

Sergei Prokofiev: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 4/Overture, Op. 34

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000029KY
Release Date: 1994-10-04

Tracks:

Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: I. Andantino
Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: II. Scherzo. Vivace
Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: III. Intermezzo. Allegro moderato
Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 16: IV. Finale. Allegro tempestoso
Concerto For Piano (Left Hand) And Orchestra No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: I. Vivace
Concerto For Piano (Left Hand) And Orchestra No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: II. Andante
Concerto For Piano (Left Hand) And Orchestra No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: III. Moderato
Concerto For Piano (Left Hand) And Orchestra No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 53: IV. Vivace
Overture On Hebrew Themes For Clarinet, String Quartet And Piano, Op. 34

Amazon.com essential recording

This is the Prokofiev concerto cycle for the digital age. Yefim Bronfman relishes every steely flourish of this brilliant and angular music. His performance of the Second Concerto, Prokofiev's best but not most popular, really does achieve transcendent greatness. The first movement features a "cadenza from hell"--a solo section comprising almost half the movement--that has to be heard to be believed. Bronfman flies through it, fingers sweeping the keyboard to the point where you fear for the health of his piano. The Fourth Concerto is for left hand only and is the least well known of the five. Bronfman makes the best possible case for it, and the charming overture is a delightful bonus. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Prokofiev 2nd - Surprised was not better.......2007-03-11

I purchased this mostly for the Prokofiev 2nd which is one of my favorites. I am not a big fan of the Prokofiev 4th, thus my comments are limited to the 2nd.

Prior to purchasing the CD, I had the chance to hear Bronfman play the Prokofiev 2nd at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC with the National Symphony Orchestra (with whom he also performed the 3rd on another date.) In the live performances, Bronfman's playing was far more vivacious and less studious than on this recording. As others have noted, Bronfman takes the piece too much in stride, and the orchestra also is just going through the paces. On the plus side, the quality of the recording is well balanced between orchestra and piano which is a challenge given the dynamics of the piece.

As for being the best available recording of the 2nd, I would put it behind the Gutierrez/Jarvi/Royal Concertgebouw recording still available on Chandos. Shura Cherkassky's performance with the London Philharmonic (BBC recording)is also available and more satisfying even if he does miss a few notes and invent a few others along the way (he was age 80+ at the time).

As for the best recording of the 2nd, my vote goes for Jorge Bolet's performance with the Cincinnati Orchestra which was issued on a Remington LP in the 1950's and (re-released on Turnabout in the 1970's). Bolet and conductor Thor Johnson provide a whirlwind performance that at times is over the top, but totally engaging from start to finish. I wish someone would rediscover those tapes and reissue it.

Amazon reviewer makes bold statement..........2005-12-10

....and is dead on; while Prokofiev's 2nd concerto lacks the sophistication and compositional genius of the 3rd it is superior for two reasons: 1) it is more idiomatic 2) it is more personal. The audience was utterly baffled at the premiere, the world shocked, why? just listen! who else writes like this? Not only is this a prime example of Prokofiev's iconoclastic style - a romp through a truly gothic sound world -- but it is also one of his most personal, a romantic concerto written by an anti-romantic in response to a friends letter that stated, "I've written to tell you the latest news: I've shot myself. The reasons are unimportant." It lacks sophistication because it is barbaric, raw and utterly tempestuous.

Bromfman is not a risk taker (Pogorelich), a method actor (Richter), nor a character actor (Rubenstein); Bromfman basically plays what's on the page like Ashkenazy albeit in this case with the requisite gravitas. It's unfortunate the demand for this concerto has not fueled more interpretation; for the time being this really is the only worthwhile recording.

Lacklustre, indeed.......2004-12-19

I used to like these performances, but over time it has begun to appear to me that they aren't that good. Bronfman's technique so easily matches Prokofiev's challenges that he sounds almost bored with them. I don't see why Hurwitz thinks Bronfman's piano is in danger, if you consider that he rips through the music so effortlessly and, indeed, with little interest. By contrast, try Alexander Toradze's hyper-furious take on the G minor. He makes things too elephantine perhaps, but it's more interesting than what we get here.

lackluster but well recorded.......2004-04-17

i've admired bronfman's playing primarily through the beautiful series of chamber discs he recorded with mintz; against that standard these prokofiev concertos are a disappointment. the overall approach is surprisingly literal and metronomic, with a lack of lyrical fire or virtuosic ice, and tempos (especially in the outer movements) that are slower than usual. soloist and conductor seem to play in parallel rather than in close partnership. (it's as if bronfman and mehta were thrown into the studio without enough rehearsal time.) all the keyboard notes are perfectly in place, and the orchestral detail is exceptionally clear, but these are recordings better suited for studying the performance score than for encountering the full range of prokofiev's unique poetry.

Best Prokofiev Recording Available.......2001-08-02

Yefim Bronfman & Zubin Mehta have joined forces to produce one of the best recordings of any Prokofiev work. In particular, the 2nd Piano Concerto is as fine a recording as you are ever likely to hear, of anything. Clear, clean, superbly performed and immaculately recorded, it is virtually flawless. Mr. Bronfman's cadenzas are nothing short of spectacular, and the piano as recorded is as clear as if you were playing it yourself. One of the great all-time discs, this is certainly the definitive version of these pieces, majestically paced and emotionally and technically perfect. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

full of color, personality
A musical rollercoaster ride
Had me on the edge of my seat
Extreme Virtuosity

Prokofiev: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3
Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 / Variations on a Theme by Haydn for Orchestra Op. 56a
Prokofiev: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 5
Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 1

ASIN: B000000ALM
Release Date: 1992-10-28

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.16: Andantino - Allegretto
Piano Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.16: Scherzo. Vivace
Piano Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.16: Intermezzo. Allegro moderato
Piano Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.16: Finale. Allegro tempestoso
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: Andante - Allegro
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: Tema. Andantino. Tema L'istesso tempo
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: Allegro ma non troppo

Customer Reviews:

full of color, personality.......2007-03-01

The arduous tasking of recording these concerti was amply done by Gutierrez. The second is a landmark recording because it is impeccably done. All the tempi in the 2nd are taken briskly. But the reading is never facile always colorful. I love the way Gutierrez builds into the final parts of the cadenza in the first movement. Even the 2nd movement is interesting because Gutierrez plays it colorfully. The 3rd movement has a grotesque flavor, while the fourth ends *brilliantly*.

The 3rd concerto is not done on that same stratospheric level as the 2nd because it is simply not as interesting.

A musical rollercoaster ride.......2005-05-31

The two other reviews already given to this disc underline the most prominent quality of this disc: the first movement of the Second Concerto is absolutely breathtaking. A quiet, contemplative mood at the beginning flows into an Allegretto with a spirit of adventure, before returning to the material from the opening. But this time it's also the beginning of an extended, nearly six-minute solo piano cadenza which gradually builds intensity. The writing grows more and more complex, the difficulties pile on top of one another, until finally there is an amazingly powerful moment of release, rightly marked 'colossale' in the score. I'm usually sweating and out of breath by the time Gutierrez has finished! Finally, following a cymbal crash, the quiet mood of the opening returns, signaling the end of the drama and ending the movement in the same sorrowful mood as it began.

From there, it never gets quite as exciting again. The rest of the concerto seems a tad flat, but then again, anything would be a letdown after such a moving outflow of emotion. Furthermore, as the storm of the first movement on the disc fades into the memory, the quality of the playing sinks in that much more. The cooperation between pianist and conductor is almost telepathic. The phrasing matches, the balance is superb, and the rhythms are always exactly in synch. From beginning to end, every performer is flawless. This is an amazingly committed performance of a concerto that is still fresh, and deserves to be played more often.

The Third Concerto is not quite so fresh; there are heaps of recordings out there. My favorite is Prokofiev's own recording, available on the Naxos Historical label, which is about five minutes faster than anyone else and gleefully impetuous. The orchestra can barely keep up with his unpredictable shifts in tempo and mood. By comparison, most other recordings, including this one, sound a bit too straight and predictable. That's not to say that no one else should play it, though. What Gutierrez and Jarvi do best in this recording is underline the Latin flavor of a few specific sections. When the imperative is on the rhythm of the dance, they get it exactly right. And the perpetual-motion feeling of the finale is always a great visceral thrill - the Prokofiev Third is one of the surest ways to thrill and delight an audience, even a stuffy one like myself.

This is near the top of my playlist. Highly recommended.

Had me on the edge of my seat.......2005-02-25

The title pretty much explains itself. Horacio Gutierrez is a remarkable pianist who is not nearly as well known as he deserves to be. First of all, his performance of the Prokofiev 2nd Concerto is the best I have ever heard as well (I believe that has also been stated by the previous reviewer). He took the first movement of the 2nd Concerto very fast. The cadenza was the most exciting I have ever heard. Pretty much everything here I say is what the other reviewer has stated. As for the 3rd Concerto I personally am not as well acquainted with this concerto as I am with the 2nd but I can say I enjoyed it very much.

Five stars.

Extreme Virtuosity.......2005-02-06

I'm sorry to say that I don't know much about Gutierrez, but this CD seems to say a lot. His recording of the 2nd Concerto is simply the best I have ever heard. In the cadenza of the first movement, which is probably the most difficult and longest cadenza ever written, Gutierrez plays all of the notes and gives it a drive that is just a thrill. It is hard to imagine that just two hands are playing during this cadenza! In the Scherzo, Gutierrez does a good job of capturing the capriciousness of this difficult movement, which features extremely fast jumps and requires a lot of endurance, difficulties which Gutierrez quickly overcomes. The Intermezzo is excellent, with the orchestra's truly frightening opening, while the contrasts in the Finale are breathtaking. The Cadenza in the piano in this movement is well handled by Gutierrez, who captures it's march-like nature.

The recording of the Third Piano Concerto is also excellent, although perhaps not as good as the Second, and I personally prefer Argerich or even Bronfman for this one. The collaboration with the orchestra also seems to be a bit off at times. However, for a truly magnificent rendering of the second piano concerto this CD is a great buy.

Prokofiev: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Violin Sonata No. 2

Average customer rating:

Prokofiev does not get much better
Incredible Music, Incredibly Played
Oistrakh is a master, but these interpretations are low key
Great addition to a music lover's collection...
Brilliant, But Collectors Beware

Prokofiev: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Violin Sonata No. 2

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

The Devil's Trill: Showpieces for violin & piano
Great Recordings Of The Century - Beethoven: Triple Concerto; Brahms: Double Concerto / Oistrakh, Rostropovich, Richter
Brahms: Violin Concerto; Violin Sonata No. 3
Shostakovich: Cello Concerto No1, Op107; Violin Concerto No1 (revised), Op99
Prokofiev: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 2

ASIN: B0002VEPNU
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

I: Andantino
II: Scherzo (Vivacissimo)
III: Moderato
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Assai
III: Allegro, Ben Marcato
I. Moderato
II: Scherzo (Presto)
III: Andante
IV: Allegro Con Brio

Customer Reviews:

Prokofiev does not get much better.......2007-01-10

A brilliant performance by possibly the best violinist of his generation and, since he was Russian, Oistrakh has a real feel for the elemental Russian-ness of the music

Incredible Music, Incredibly Played.......2006-07-12

This is a really great Cd, for many reasons. Firstly, the music itself is incredible. Prokofiev's First Violin Concerto is a great piece of music. In many ways, it is typical Prokofiev, exciting, quirky, abrasive. But at other times, it is so ethereal and beautiful. The orchestra part is very light and transparent, which allows each individual instrument to shine in its own way (particularly in the spectacular scherzo). The 2nd Violin Sonata was originally a flute sonata, but Oistrakh (who was a good friend of Prokofiev) helped him transcribe it for violin. A flautist friend of mine who was writing a college paper about Prokofiev told me that she read that the flautist who premiered the sonata was drunk at the time, which prompted Oistrakh to declare he could play the piece much better. I don't know if that's actually true, but if I've read enough Dostoevsky that it doesn't seem too far fetched for a Russian (just kidding!). It's very neo-classical in form, which provides a nice canvas for Prokofiev's often humorous writing (compared to the much more intense 1st Violin Sonata - also a wonderful piece). I don't like the 2nd Violin Concerto as much. It's not a bad piece, but I don't think its as memorable as either of the other two pieces.

Oistrakh's playing, as usual, is impeccable. His tone is full and beautiful in every register and he navigates the speedy Scherzo of the 1st concerto with more clarity than any other player I've heard. I don't think that Oistrakh's playing is too tame on this disc. I think we often attribute the craziness with which many violinist play these pieces to being intentional or purely for effect. On the other hand, I think in many cases it may simply be a product of how difficult the music is. It's much harder to play this music cleanly and controlled than it is to rip through it "crazily" (although I also enjoy that approach - check out Josefowicz's recording for a much crazier rendition). However, I don't think that Oistrakh's uncanny technical mastery is a hinderance to his expressive abilities. On the other hand, being such a technical good player allows him to phrase subtlely and tastefully at all times, even when playing passages that would have most other violinst simply hoping to get through it.

I don't like referring to any given recording as a benchmark or definitive this or that... I think all artists have something different to offer (which is how I justify buying so many different versions of the same pieces...). However, if I HAD to declare one recording the best, I think this would have to be it. Enjoy!

Oistrakh is a master, but these interpretations are low key.......2006-07-10

The Gramohone says that Oistrakh's playing was 'a calming influence in an agitated world,' which encapsulates how his admirers feel about an artist whose interpretations could be decidedly low-key and overly controlled. Rarely is Oistrakh willing to surrender his immaculate technique for the sake of spontaneity or visceral excitement (of course, thre are exceptions--no one made as many recordings or as many multiple copies of a single work).

These mono concerto recordings from EMI's archive show his tone and technique off to excellent effect, although the orchestras are a bit too far back to have an impact. Oistrakh used the Prokofiev First as a specialty piece, and here he sounds completely at ease, spinning out lyric lines and fast passagework with effortlessness and exquisite tonal sheen. I'd like to hear more imaginaiton, not to mention passionate involvement, which is largely missing here, and Matacic's accompaniment is good without equaling what the soloist is doing. The Second Concerto under Galliera is lackluster in the orchestral part, and Oistrakh doesn't seem as involved, either.

I think modern Russian virtuosos, particularly Vengerov in his acclaimed recordings with Rostropovich (Teldec), are nearly Oistrakh's equal in technique and surpass him in excitement, not to meniton recorded sound. But there is a unique finesse to his playing that no one has matched, and if that appeals to you, these are very worthwhile documents. The Second Sonata with Yampolsky is in good stereo and is just as beautifully executed as the concertos.

Great addition to a music lover's collection..........2005-04-23

...just as long as you're starting it. You may only want to read this if you're new to this music because the past reviewer has wisely mentioned it, this has been previously released, and sometimes if your collection grows, it's difficult to keep track of the CDs you own, so careful! Now, if you are new to REAL music, it's a great choice, even more so for a violinist, since it features a must-listen piece: Prokofiev's beautiful No2 concerto performed by the magnificent David Oistrakh, one of the most recognizable names among violinists. Concerto No1, though shorter than most other violin concertos, is also worth listening; plus, it has the violin sonata No2 as a bonus! So if you're a newbie to classical music then by all means buy it, and don't stop there! After that get Tchaikovsky's violin concerto and the Brandenburg Concerts and Mozart's operas and...

Brilliant, But Collectors Beware.......2005-01-06

These mono recordings of Prokofiev's Violin Concertos are nothing short of brilliant, and despite their mono sound, are in the opinion of many the best accounts ever recorded. The problem is serious collectors most likely already own two-thirds of the contents of this disc. You see, in the past EMI has licensed out many of their more specialized performances to a British company called Testament. The very same performances featured here of the Concerto No.1 and Violin Sonata No. 2 were previously issued on Testament's SBT 1116 (see my review) & 1113 CDs respectively. While novice fans stumbling upon this CD in the bins at their local store could care less about this fact, it is a major problem for serious collectors like myself. It is often hard enough to avoid purchasing duplicate material on the same record label with the numerous reissues that have drifted in an out-of-print over the years, let alone encountering the same music on different labels. Though coming from a jazz background, I shouldn't be surprised with EMI's tactics. This is the same kind of thing they do all the time with Mosaic Records -- authorizing the production of limited edition boxed sets then when the Mosaic edition sells out, re-releasing the same music as single titles on their own brand. In fact, I know of at least one other upcoming release, the Guido Cantelli offering in EMI's "Great Artists of the Century" series, that will duplicate yet another Testament title -- "The Debussy Recordings" SBT 1011 (see my review). So in summary, EMI has produced some great reissues lately, just make sure you don't already own them.

Prokofiev: The Piano Concertos; Violin Concerto No. 1

Average customer rating:

Indispensable Recordings from Leinsdorf's Masterful Prokofiev Series

Prokofiev: The Piano Concertos; Violin Concerto No. 1

Manufacturer: Testament UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet; Lieutenant Kijé Suite
Prokofiev: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 6
Prokofiev: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 3
John Browning Edition, Vol.II
John Browning Edition, Vol.III

ASIN: B0007VXZE0
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Customer Reviews:

Indispensable Recordings from Leinsdorf's Masterful Prokofiev Series.......2005-08-31

John Browning and Erich Leinsdorf first recorded a Prokofiev piano concerto (the Third) in 1960 for Capitol records. When Leinsdorf became music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra two years later, he brought Browning to RCA and they recorded all five, the very first integral set anywhere. Some forty years later, it's still impressive as remastered by Testament. These are sharply projected, athletic performances that nevertheless do not scant Prokofiev's characteristically mordant lyricism. Analog sound quality is first-rate, in fact superior to what RCA managed to transfer to its original Lps. Neither Browning nor Leinsdorf are with us anymore and this set is a fine tribute to their memory. But it isn't just nostalgia that persuades me to recommend this set: even given its steep price and competition from the likes of Ashkenazy/Previn, Beroff/Masur and others, Browning and Leinsdorf's unique projection of machine-like power and lyric whimsy is essential to a full understanding of these wonderful compositions. As a bonus, Testament throws in a fine performance of the first Violin Concerto recorded by Leinsdorf, the BSO and Heifetz-protege Erick Friedman. Friedman's performance isn't in the Browning league, but it's splendidly assured and goes far to explain why Heifetz placed such high hopes in his future. Note: Leinsdorf recorded the second Violin Concerto at about the same time with a young Itzhak Perlman and that recording is also available on a BMG/RCA CD. In fact, Leinsdorf recorded quite a bit of Prokofiev in Boston for RCA and Testament apparently intends to release much of that series on CD over the next year or so. Good news for those of us who have been praying for a release of symphonies 2, 3, 5 and (especially) 6! One can only wonder why BMG/RCA have been so derelict in reissuing these fabulous (and fabulously well-recorded) recordings, while applauding Testament for its initiative. Leinsdorf's Boston tenure produced nothing more memorable than the stunning performances RCA captured in its Prokofiev series, and they're all 'must-buy' priorities for anyone who loves Prokofiev's music.

Average customer rating:

A great career is launched

Prokofiev and Glazunov Violin Concertos
Sergey Prokofiev , Alexander Konstantinovich Glazunov , Nikolaj Znaider , Marriss Jansons , and Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bravo! Virtuoso and Romantic Encores for Violin
Nikolaj Znaider: Nielsen - Violin Concerto & Max Bruch - Violin Concerto No. 1, G-minor
Beethoven Violin Concerto in D/Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E Minor
Ilya Gringolts Plays Paganini
Violin Concertos

ASIN: B00006313T
Release Date: 2002-03-19

Tracks:

Violin Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.63: Allegro Moderato
Violin Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.63: Andante Assai
Violin Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.63: Allegro, Ben Marcato
Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: Moderato
Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: Andante Sostenuto; Tempo I
Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: Allegro
Meditation, Op.42 No.1

Amazon.com

This is the first recording of an extraordinarily talented young violinist. Born in Denmark to Polish-Israeli parents in 1975, Znaider won the Carl Nielsen International Violin Competition in 1992 and the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels in 1997, and he's embarked on a flourishing career spanning several continents. From this recording, as from his concert appearances, it's clear that he is a virtuoso with a formidable, utterly secure, effortless but totally unobtrusive technique; a lovely tone of great warmth, purity, and flexibility; and a sensitive musical expressiveness so genuine that it needs no external effects, not even slides.

Of the two Prokofiev concertos, the second is the more ingratiating and lyrical one, and Znaider makes the soaring melodies sing rapturously. His tone in the high register, so beloved by the composer, shimmers radiantly. There are also plenty of fast bravura passages, which Znaider tosses off with ease, brilliance, and absolute clarity. Better yet, he gives them shape and makes them sound like music, even the famously--or infamously--difficult, long, and jagged sections in the Finale. The Glazunov has a warm, ardent glow as well as a subdued, inward delicacy. Its bleak mournfulness is always noble and deeply felt. The Cadenza is wistful and introspective, the Finale elegant and charming. The Tchaikovsky Meditation is melancholy, but never becomes sentimental; the excellent orchestral solos stand out, while the violinist discreetly weaves figurations around them. This is a most promising and impressive debut. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

A great career is launched.......2005-10-17

Two nights ago while visiting Chicago I heard Nikolaj Znaider live, and it was a cpativating experience. I rushed home and bought this, his first CD, and it fulfills the promise of what I heard (he performed the Mendelssohn concerto with the CSO under Barenboim and has just recorded it). The Amazon reviewer has stated everything perfectly: Znaider is a virtuoso second and a musicain first, never intruding himself into the compoer's total conception. He plays a gorgeous Stradivarius, caught on this CD very well in quite closely miked sound.

To show you how unassuming this virtuoso is, the second half of the CSO program was devoted to the Mahelr Fifth. Without fanfare Znaider sneaked into the back row of the first violins and played along, and he even turned the pages for his desk mate!

There are fine versions of the Prokofiev Second around, but Znaider is competitive with all of them. HIs is better conducted (by Maris Jansons) than the vengerov or Shaham recordings I previously favored. If you want warm, lyrical violin playing to melt the heart a la Joshua Bell, rest asured that Znaider is off to a great career with exactly that style.

Sergey Sergeyevich Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Killer Prokofiev

Sergey Sergeyevich Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos 1-5
Bartok: The Piano Concertos
Debussy: Piano Works
Haydn: Piano Sonatas
Becket

ASIN: B000000AMF
Release Date: 1992-10-28

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major Op. 10: Allegro brioso
Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major Op. 10: Andante assai
Piano Concerto No. 1 In D Flat Major Op. 10: Allegro scherzando
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major Op. 53 (For The Left Hand): I. Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major Op. 53 (For The Left Hand): II. Andante
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major Op. 53 (For The Left Hand): III. Moderato - Allegro moderato
Piano Concerto No. 4 In B Flat Major Op. 53 (For The Left Hand): IV. Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 5 In G Major Op. 55: I. Allegro con brio
Piano Concerto No. 5 In G Major Op. 55: II. Moderato ben accentuato
Piano Concerto No. 5 In G Major Op. 55: III. Toccata: Allegro con fuoco
Piano Concerto No. 5 In G Major Op. 55: IV. Larghetto
Piano Concerto No. 5 In G Major Op. 55: V. Vivo

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor Op. 16: I. Andantino - Allegretto
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor Op. 16: II. Scherzo. Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor Op. 16: III. Intermezzo. Allegro moderato
Piano Concerto No. 2 In G Minor Op. 16: IV. Finale. Allegro tempestoso
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major Op. 26: I. Andante - Allegro
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major Op. 26: II. Tema. Andantino; Variations: I. L'istesso tempo; II. Allegro; III. ALlegro moderato (poco meno mosso); IV. Andante meditativo; V. Allegro giusto - Tema. Listesso tempo
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major Op. 26: III. Allegro ma non troppo

Customer Reviews:

Killer Prokofiev.......2001-10-01

If you are only going to buy one recording of the prokofiev piano concertos, then this is the recording to buy.

This is the most fiery and dynamic (ok, bombastic) recordings of these concertos I have heard, and the orchestra and soloists both agree on the style of the music. (The orchestra contributes significantly to the overall impact of the music in contrast to many other recordings where the orchestra is just there to play the notes.) The soloists are awesome.

The 3RD concerto is a bit lacking, in that compared to the Ashkenazy version, it lacked sensitivity and was not as transparent, yet it is still a good reading. (My favorite version of the 3RD was a live concert given by Lang-Lang, which had a perfect balance between bombaat and flowing melodic lines. If he ever records it, I'll be the first to snarf it up...)

Track Listings:

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

Halfway Between Here & There

Julius Bittner: Der Bergsee

Organ Blues

For the Love

Moving Careful [EP]

More Than You'll Ever Know

Judy/Judy in Love [Import]

I Will Lift up Mine Eyes

Libertango [Import]

Montreux '77 [Live]

Little Plastic Castle

Ilumina

Guajira [CD-single] [Import]

Nakano Shima Blues

Habana Nocturna