Sergey Rachmaninov: The 4 Piano Concertos

1. Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by USSR Symphony Orchestra with Victor Eresko
Conducted by Gennady Provatorov

2. Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Op. 30
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by USSR Symphony Orchestra with Victor Eresko
Conducted by Gennady Provatorov

3. Piano Concerto No. 1 in F sharp minor, Op. 1 2nd Version
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by USSR Symphony Orchestra with Victor Eresko
Conducted by Gennady Provatorov

4. Piano Concerto No. 4 in G minor, Op. 40
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by USSR Symphony Orchestra with Victor Eresko
Conducted by Gennady Provatorov

5. Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini (Introduction and 24 Variations), in A minor for piano & orchestra, Op. 43
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra with Victor Eresko
Conducted by Vladimir Ponkin

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op.1: I Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op.1: II Andante
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op.1: III Allegro vivace
Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op.18: I Moderato
Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op.18: II Adagio sostenuto
Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op.18: III Allegro scherzando

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.3 In D Minor, Op.30: I Allegro ma non tanto
Piano Concerto No.3 In D Minor, Op.30: II Intermezzo: Adagio
Piano Concerto No.3 In D Minor, Op.30: III Finale (Alla breve)
Piano Concerto No.4 In D Minor, Op.40: I Allegro vivace (Alla breve)
Piano Concerto No.4 In D Minor, Op.40: II Largo
Piano Concerto No.4 In D Minor, Op.40: III Allegro vivace

Customer Reviews:

This is the one to buy!.......2007-06-13

A number of years ago, I went to the Classical Record Store in Toronto to acquire a copy of Rachmaninov's Piano Concertos. Like many others, I'd been introduced to Rachmaninov's 3rd Piano Concerto by the movie "Shine". When I asked the resident musicologist for Rach 3, she rolled her eyes. I explained that I wasn't remotely interested in the commercial David Helfgott version. I wanted the definitive version. She smiled knowingly and took me to a shelf. This is the version she handed me. Buy it. You won't be disappointed! Ashkenazy is at the peak of his powers and Previn does a phenomenal job with the London Symphony. It doesn't get any better than this.

An easy first choice.......2006-06-12

If you are looking for a standard stereo recording of the four concertoes, you don't have to look hard to realize that this set would be a nice and easy choice. Ashkenazy's performances of the Rachmaninov concertos are poetic, full of passions and yearnings, and technically excellent. This 2CD set is sold at the price of one full-priced CD, so it should be a good bargain. If you are a newcomer to Rachmaninov, this set is highly recommended. Later on when you have become familiar with these concertos you might also want to check out the renditions by Argerich and Horowitz, both of which contain some of the most spectacular displays of keyboard fireworks. These recordings by Ashkenazy have been reissued many times and the most recent one I believe is the 2 separate disks in the Eloquence series. Sonically the Eloquence reissues were artificially reprocessed in order to create wider dynamics and better sense of immediacy. Get either this one or the other, it doesn't matter which, what matters is that every Rachmaninov lover should have these recordings as basic items in his/her collection.

The champion of Rachmaninov's music........2005-12-25

This is a very good set of Rachmaninov's piano works for a very reasonable price indeed. For those who are unfamiliar with the great russian composer's piano works, from the blazing horns, swelling piano chords and seductive strings opening the first piano concerto you feel right away you're in for a very special musical experience.

Normally, when you know and appreciate what a musician has created throughout his career, there's almost always one piece of work that stands out or that you like more than the others. When it comes to Rachmaninov's piano works, mine would certainly be the Piano Concerto no 3, one of the most beautiful piano works that were ever written, and also the Concerto no 4. There's a certain nostalgia about this latter work, like feelings about a past gone forever, and you can feel this leitmotiv during the whole concerto. Maybe the fact that Rachmaninov wrote this wonderful concerto after having moved permanently to the US and therefore feeling homesick has something to do with it.

As for Mr Ashkenazy, he simply is the best interpreter when it comes to Rachmaninov's piano works. The great Vladimir is temperate rather than romantic, cool and constantly in control: sometimes he seems pouring out rivers of emotions and passion without getting carried away though. He has the musicality and intelligence to understand exactly how these concertos work. He has phenomenal technique, original approach, and his touch is quite fiery at times, gentle and tender at others. He can be poetic and passionate when he needs to.

In Rachmaninov's piano concertos the orchestra plays a vital role, often playing the main theme melodies while the piano accompanies, which is rather unusual. In this regard, the London Symphonic Orchestra and conductor A. Prévin are one of the best. Couple this with Rachmaninov's music and Ashkenazy's interpretation, and you're in for a very special musical treat indeed.

Thoughtful but passionate interpretations.......2005-07-09

After listening to a recording of Rachmaninoff's 2nd concerto and hearing a lot about the 3rd concerto, I jumped at buying this CD because of the low cost for two CDs - I was not disappointed.

For me the highlight by far is the third piano concerto, where Ashkenazy seems to pour out passion without getting carried away. This recording I much prefer to Argerich's recording (passionate, but little restraint and thought put into that performance) and even Horowitz's (although this may be because of it's worse sound quality). The first movement is played slower than most other performances, but is filled with passion and technical mastery. I am starting to learn this concerto and know how difficult it is! I was glad to see that Ashkenazy used the longer, chordal codenza rather than the shorter one used by Horowitz and Argerich (those are the only other recordings I've heard) with I much prefer.

The first and fourth concertos are also fabulously played but for me they don't compare to the third. The second concerto, however, was a little bit of a disappointment for me (not enough for me to give the discs 4 stars, however). Because I have already learned this concerto, I'm probably quicker to find faults with Ashkenazy's playing here. If I could put my finger on what I don't like about it it would be the balance between the piano and orchestra - you can hardly hear the piano at some of the most difficult sections. Still, the orchestra sounds beautiful and so does the piano when you can hear it.

Since listening to this disc Ashkenazy has quickly become one of my favorite pianists - as has Levine as a conductor. I would heartily recommend this CD for anyone, but especially for anyone who ever aspires to play any of these pieces - all four of the are beautiful and these performances are well thought-out and powerful.

Very good.......2005-03-18

These performances are wonderful, and to those who think otherwise, I do not really know another complete set that has performances as good as this. Ashkenazy is, as usual, amazing, and this particular set of the many Ashkenazy/Previn Rachmaninov Concertos sets is often called definitive. The sound quality is pretty good. Highly recommended.
By the way, Vladimir Ashkenazy holds the position of President of the Rachmaninov Society, which makes this set a no brainer.

Serge Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4/Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninoff, Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4/Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini
4 out of 5 or 3 our ot of 4
low-hanging fruit
Fantastic
A decent set

Serge Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4/Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Van Cliburn: My Favorite Rachmaninoff
Serge Rachmaninoff: 3 Symphonies/The Rock
Sergei Rachmaninoff: Greatest Hits
Rachmaninoff plays Rachmaninoff
Rachmaninoff Plays Rachmaninoff

ASIN: B000004167
Release Date: 1993-10-12

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: 1. Moderato
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: 2. Adagio sostenuto
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: 3. Allegro scherzando
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: 1. Allegro ma non tanto
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: 2. Intermezzo (Adagio)
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: 3. Finale (Alla breve)

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: 1. Vivace
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: 2. Andante
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: 3. Allegro vivace
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: 1. Allegro vivace. (Alla breve)
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: 2. Largo
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: 3. Allegro vivace
Rhapsodie On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43: Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43

Customer Reviews:

Rachmaninoff, Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4/Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini.......2007-03-09

I am truly enjoying them. I play them almost daily.

4 out of 5 or 3 our ot of 4.......2007-02-21

I didn't care for the interpretation of the Third piano concerto, It was a bit rough around the edges and lacked lyricism. I bought the set because I heard the 4th on NPR and loved it.

low-hanging fruit.......2007-02-15

Sergei Rachmaninoff's music for piano and orchestra is easy to love. Its lyrical romanticism and connections with successors that lead even to jazz piano tend to be accessible to contemporary listeners. It is some of the most stirring music ever written, though it does not earn the respect of work written by canonical masters of the genre like Mozart and Beethoven.

When you pair this music with Edo de Waart's baton (now in Hong Kong), Rafael Orozco's keyboard, and the always dependable Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, you've got a situation where artistic ripe fruit is hanging low for the picking.

After you've loved this double CD recording to death, make it a project to introduce someone who needs orchestral music in her life but doesn't see it yet. Rachmaninoff might just be the doorway.

Lovely, lovely music, perhaps even for hearts worn flat by pop culture's single track.

Fantastic.......2006-11-29

As a reviewer said below (I 100% agree), technically, the pianist's technique is virtually godlike (Czifra-like technique). Maybe musically he provides a unique interperetation... but in a positive way! After listeting to about 10 versions of Rachman.concertos, I found the Orozco interpretation and understanding of the concertos to be far the superior!! Originally I had no idea about this recording and wanted to go with Kissin or Kondrashin etc. Also because the quality of this recording is not the top one (but it is not that bad - I just call it "philips sound"). To conclude, to me this is finally the kind of interpretation which makes me stand up from the chair and which makes me chill. Like Heifetz on violin. The performance has unbelievable emotional drive - Orozco is unbelievable. Kissin pales beside him, really.

A decent set.......2006-09-07

Perhaps the greatest virtue of this recording set is that it very nicely comes with the complete set of Rachmaninoff works for Piano and orchestra, but other than that, unfortunately, it counts for little else.

Technically, the playing is solid. However, the interpretation has less soul to it than I would really like in such deep music as this. Many beautiful sections of music are glossed over, such as the opening of the Fourth Concerto, the opening of the Rhapsody, and other parts.

As a complete set, this recording is at best a bargain set with bargain priced playing and sound... However, if you are looking for interpretations of the individual pieces included, each one has at least several more satisfying recordings available. Looking for a complete set is now much easier--check out Nikolai Lugansky's complete set for only about $2 more, last I checked.

Average customer rating:

Ashkenazy - one of the best musicians of our time
Illustrious Dark
Ashkenazy's fluidity: a very good fit with Rachmaninov
My Favorite Rachmaninov Interpreter
Superb set of Rachmaninov's complete Piano works

Rachmaninov: The Piano Concertos

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Rachmaninov: The Symphonies
Liszt: Piano Works
Chopin: The Piano Works
Brahms: Works for Solo Piano
Mozart: The Piano Concertos

ASIN: B0000041ML
Release Date: 1997-08-12

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: I. Vivace - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: II. Andante - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1: III. Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: I. Moderato - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: II. Adagio sostenuto - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: III. Allegro scherzando - S. Rachmaninoff

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Allegro ma non tanto - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Intermezzo: Adagio - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Finale (Alla breve) - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: Allegro vivace (Alla breve) - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: Largo - S. Rachmaninoff
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff

Tracks:

Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Op. 43 - Rachmaninov
Piano Sonato No. 2 in B Flat Minor, Op. 36: I. Allegro agitato - Rachmaninov
Piano Sonato No. 2 in B Flat Minor, Op. 36: II. Non allegro - Rachmaninov
Piano Sonato No. 2 in B Flat Minor, Op. 36: III. Allegro molto - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 1 in F minor - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 2 in C major - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 3 in C minor - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 4 in D minor - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 5 in E flat minor - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 6 in E flat major - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 7 in G minor - Rachmaninov
8 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 33: No. 8 in C sharp minor - Rachmaninov
Prelude in C sharp minor, Op. 3, No. 2 - Rachmaninov

Tracks:

10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 1 In F Sharp Minor - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 2 In B Flat Major - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 3 in D minor - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 4 In D Major - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 5 In G Minor - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 6 In E Flat Major - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 7 In C Minor - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 8 In A Flat Major - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 9 In E Flat Minor - Rachmaninov
10 Preludes, Op. 23: No. 10 In G Flat Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 1 In C Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 2 In B Flat Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 3 In E Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 4 In E Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 5 In G Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 6 In F Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 7 In F Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 8 In A Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 9 In A Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 10 In B Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 11 In B Major - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 12 In G Sharp Minor - Rachmaninov
13 Preludes, Op. 32: No. 13 In D Flat Major - Rachmaninov

Tracks:

Suite No. 1 for 2 pianos, Op. 5: I. Barcarolle: Allegretto - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 1 for 2 pianos, Op. 5: II. La Nuit, l'Amour: Adagio sostenuto - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 1 for 2 pianos, Op. 5: III. Les Larmes: Largo di molto - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 1 for 2 pianos, Op. 5: IV. Paques: Allegro maestoso - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 2, for 2 pianos, Op. 17: I. Introduction: Alla marcia - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 2, for 2 pianos, Op. 17: II. Valse: Presto - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 2, for 2 pianos, Op. 17: III. Romance: Andantino - Rachmaninov
Suite No. 2, for 2 pianos, Op. 17: IV. Tarantelle - Rachmaninov
Russian Rhapsody for 2 pianos in E minor: Moderato - Vivace - Andante - Rachmaninov
Variations on a theme by Corelli, Op. 42 - Rachmaninov

Tracks:

9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 1 In C minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 2 In A minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 3 In F Sharp Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 4 In B Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 5 In E Flat Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 6 In A Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 7 In C Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 8 In D Minor - S. Rachmaninoff
9 Etudes-tableaux, Op. 39: No 9 In D Major - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphonic Dances for 2 pianos, Op. 45: I. Non allegro - Lento - Tempo I - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphonic Dances for 2 pianos, Op. 45: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse) - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphonic Dances for 2 pianos, Op. 45: III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff

Customer Reviews:

Ashkenazy - one of the best musicians of our time.......2005-11-21

I consider Ashkenazy to be one of the most underrated pianists. Since he has this unmarketable father figure image in the piano world many people put him in the backburner of their recollections. First of all, anyone with such a prolific repertoire as Ashkenazy falls under the category of "genius" (Richter was also strong in this area). A pianist, in general, has much more credibility if he/she can tackle a variety of different pieces and styles. Many people assume by default that because he splits his time conducting and plays so much different music... that he is a jack of all trades but master of none.
One of the distinct attributes that Ashkenazy has is his amazing intelligence (this links him to Richter). Unlike Gould and Poglerelich who seem eccentric in a childish way at times, Ashkenazy has a very deep understanding of music and its foundations. He understand the composers styles and dynamics. This really sets him aside from many other pianists. I was pleasantly surprised by this Rachmaninoff. It is very flowing and the orchestra is great (better than in the Richter CD in my opinion). There is a feeling that this music is always going in the right direction. Ashkenazy also doesn't fall in the trap of playing Rach Chopin-style. I like the Richter CD better because I like Richter's temperament... but this is an excellent set for those that might find Richter overwhelming.

Illustrious Dark.......2005-03-19

The pianistic genius of Rachmaninov and his spirit incarnate: Vladimir Ashkenazy. If you have ever heard Rachmaninov play his own music, you probably pondered the impressive talent. But where his personal strengths lay in composition, his performances were a little too eccentric for me. For example, his renditions of militaristic Prelude No. 5 in G minor is a soft, cautious approach; his piano concerto no. 2 played so quickly, there is no time to enjoy each note.

Enter Ashkenazy. He plays that prelude with solid force and quick, snapping fingers, and thunderous chords, climaxing into those beautiful rolling hills...it is played beautifully. And of course, the piano concerto is slowed down to the proper tempo. (Incidentally, I find this concerto has some parts that are played too quickly, thereby losing a sense of largeness to some themes. In later recordings, Jean-Yves Thibaudet performed the concerto exactly to my tastes, and the orchestra was conducted, impressively, by Mr. Ashkenazy himself!)

For the piano enthusiast, this collection is nearly complete. The first three piano concertos are amazing. I grew up with Nos. 3 and then 2, and after a decade of waiting, finally listened to No. 1, which I hold in as high esteem as the later concertos. No. 4 is extremely modern, and I listen to it to let it grow on me, but I will always have a difficult time with this one. It's simply too influenced by his short Hollywood career, I feel. While it stands on its own, compared to the previous three, I tend to skip it.

I've heard Ashkenazy's recordings of the preludes before, but it was nice to finally own them. What can one say? Rachmaninov's forte was the prelude. Nowhere else can you hear chimes and bells with dark Russian themes underlying complex chord structures that scintillate or thunder.

New to me were the two Suites for 2 pianos. While much of it is a bit modern and avant-garde for my tastes, I enjoy them all the same.

For the price, you're getting quite a bargain, though. And if you don't care about the solo piano tracks, London has another release with only the four piano concertos.

Ashkenazy's fluidity: a very good fit with Rachmaninov.......2004-12-09

This boxed set contains the four piano concertos, along with the entire library of pieces for two pianos, and a good selection of Rachmaninov's major works for solo piano.

Packaged in an elegant Decca slimbox, the 6 CDs are simply a pure joy to listen to. Ashkenazy does not delivery the wildest version of the concertos, or the most passionate or energetic. What he delivers is an incredible legato and incomparable touch, with just the right amount of power when necessary. Previn's conducting is a very good fit with Ashkenazy's sobre and elegant interpretation.

Listen to "Les Larmes" - French for "The Tears" - and appreciate Ashkenazy and Previn's rendering of one of Rachmaninov's most emotional pieces.

This boxed set is, in my opinion, the best Rachmaninov package currently available. The sound quality is very good, and it contains a large selection of piano works by one of the world's finest interpreters.

My Favorite Rachmaninov Interpreter.......2003-04-06

while i dont have this particular set, i have most of ashkanazy's recordings via other the sets hes made, im assuming these are the same recordings. these are some of my favorite piano works ive ever heard in large part due to his interpretations of this music. i beleive there isnt an interpretation that i was unhappy with, so if you want all of ashkanasy's piano recordings and piano concertos in one set this is a great buy especially for the price and ammount of music.

Superb set of Rachmaninov's complete Piano works.......2001-02-04

Ashkenazy shows that he is as much at home here as he is playing Beethoven, Chopin, or Mozart. Although these performances may lack the drama of Argerich's tempestuous playing, they are very credible interpretations of the Russian composer's piano music. His performances of the concerti with Previn conducting the London Symphony Orchestra are regarded as among the finest of the entire Rachmaninov cycle. And his performances with Previn on the piano are fine, even if Previn's technique takes a back seat to Ashkenazy's. Aside from the concerti, the real gems have to be Ashkenazy's brilliant performances of the etudes. They are just as refined and as soulful as his excellent recordings of the entire Beethoven piano sonata cycle. This cheap set not only is a splendid introduction to Rachmaninov, but shows Ashkenazy at his finest, playing with technical elegance and lyricism.

Average customer rating:

Genius Performance
"Classic" pianism, but...
Michelangeli at His Best
Great Ravel and stunning Rachmaninov!!!
Inarrivabile !!

Ravel/Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Chopin: Waltzes Nos. 1-14
Schumann: Carnaval; Brahms: "Paganini" Variations; Bach-Busoni: Chaconne
Grieg: Lyric Pieces / Emil Gilels
Great Recordings Of The Century - Dinu Lipatti
Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture

ASIN: B00004R95P
Release Date: 2000-03-14

Tracks:

Piano Concerto In G: I. Allegramente
Piano Concerto In G: II. Adagio assai
Piano Concerto In G: III. Presto
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: I. Allegro vivace
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: II. Largo
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 40: III. Allegro vivace

Customer Reviews:

Genius Performance.......2005-12-03

The usual superlatives -- astonishing, amazing, extraordinary, etc -- do not do justice to this recording. Michelangeli's interpretation is superhuman, almost God-like in its majestic grandeur. I have a collection of more than 250 romantic piano concerti and no other pianist comes close to this level of genius.

"Classic" pianism, but..........2005-07-27

Technically it is difficult to imagine either of these performances being surpassed. Michelangeli's technique was dazzling in its brilliance and refinement, and brilliance counts for a great deal in both the Ravel and Rachmaninov here. In Ettore Gracis, he's got a strong and sympathetic accompanist with the late-1950s Philharmonia at its peak.

However... to hear what either of these works are made of, you should turn to other recordings. The recent Stephen Hough 2-disc set of all four Rachmaninov concerti includes a Fourth that gets to the heart of this underappreciated work and makes the Michelangeli sound like an empty display of virtuosity. Similarly, the early-jazz element of Ravel's G Major concerto comes out far more positively in another 2-disc set, in which the late Werner Haas is heard in both Ravel concerti and in his works for solo piano. Moreover, in the Adagio assai second movement Haas is more attuned to the spell the composer casts; Michelangeli, for all his patrician refinement, seems outside the music if not the notes. The Michelangeli disc is one of those standard-recommendation "classics" that makes one suspicious of standard-recommendation classics, in that there's less here than its reputation would suggest. Put another way, it's great pianism for great pianism's sake, but those who care about either composer represented here should look elsewhere.

Michelangeli at His Best.......2004-11-13

One of my favorite albums has always been the Ravel Concertos with Argerich playing the G maj Concerto and Beroff play the Concerto in D. I still think this disc is unmatched when it comes to an album with both concertos. I've always loved the Argerich and always thought the performance couldn't be matched. This was until I heard Michelangeli's version on the radio. The first movement was coming to an end and I didn't know who the performer was. Then the 2nd movement came on and the rest was history. It's one of the most devastating experiences of my musical life so far. Until this, I had the ever-familiar misperception of Michelangeli just being a technician, and that he is cold. Nothing can be further from the truth. I've learned that you really need a completely blinded test to truly gauge a performance because the preconceptions and reputations can unjustly influence a listening experience. The Argerich seems like child's play compared to Michelangeli, beyond comparison. This is also extremely well-recorded for 1958, better than Argerich's. The Rach 4 is simply stunning. I had never heard this work before and now I can't stop listening to it. Again, this is unmatched, nothing and I mean nothing comes closer. Not Wild, Ashkenazy, no one! Michelangeli had very few studio concerto recordings and these 2 concertos must have been special to him. I own >1300 clasical discs and can't think of a better concerto recording. It ranks up there with such great recordings as Kleiber Beethoven 5th and 7th as one of the greatest albums ever!

Great Ravel and stunning Rachmaninov!!!.......2004-11-03

I love Ravel's concerto in G ever since I heard it for the first time back in 1982! The first version I bought was the one with Pascal Roge (directed by Charles Dutoit); a nice version indeed! However, I love this concerto so much that this year I decided to buy two more versions that I was always curious about: the one with Martha Argerich (directed by Claudio Abbado) and this, my newest acquisition, with Michelangeli (directed by Ettore Gracis) from EMI's fantastic series "Great Recordings of the Century"!

In many ways I feel a certain similarity between Argerich's and Michelangeli's versions. Both exhibit tremendous power and great passion, although I feel Martha Argerich's has a little more feeling and perhaps a bit more excitement overall! Her playing also feels more relaxed than Michelangeli's. The second movement (adagio assai) is played beautifully by both of them, and it is perhaps in the first and third movements where I have a slight preference for Argerich's playing. Both Claudio Abbado and Ettore Gracis direction is fine in either version, however I prefer the overall orchestral sound in my older (Rage-Dutoit) version, it's more lushious than the other's!

I also like Rachmaninov's 4th concerto a lot, and have two other versions as well: Earl Wild's (under Horenstein) and Kocsis (under de Waart). If Wild's version is great and Kocsis' is just fine, Michelangeli's is simply stunning!!! The first movement is awesome!

One thing that dissapointed me a bit in this "Great Recordings of the Century" version is the recording's sound. There's more tape noise than I was expecting, judging by the excellent remastering shown in most of the other CDs that I own from this fabulous series!

So, if you don't mind a bit of tape noise and if you're ready to listen to a great version of Ravel's and an absolutely stunning Rach 4, go for it, this is truly one of the "Great Recordings of the Century"!

Inarrivabile !!.......2004-09-22

Se cerchi una registrazione di questi due concerti, e vuoi la registrazione di riferimento, questa fa per te; anzi fa per tutti dato che le registrazioni, soprattutto per il quarto concerto di Rachmaninov, sono inarrivabili !!!
Anche se la qualita del suono non è il massimo (1958) è abbastanza per poter percepire bene la tridimensionalita del suono e non perder tutte le gamme del suono che Michelangeli da.
Colpische sopratutto per la gran personalita che il pianista esegue questo concerto, senza mai un calo di tensione, senza perdere lucidità tanto da declassare l'interpretazione di Ashkenazy/Previn.

Per quanto riguarda il concerto di Ravel (1957), sempre di primissimo ordine, anche se stavolta la si può paragonare con quella della Argerich/Abbado e soprattutto di Zimerman/Boulez per precisione e controllo del colore. Di particolare splendore è il secondo movimento dove l'inguagliato tocco di Michelangeli regala alla composizione una particolare magia.

Rachmaninov: The Complete Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Get this for the Lesser Known Rachmaninov Concertos
Crystal Clear Rachmaninov
Bravo! Vasary
Tempo is much too slow!
Vásáry's Rachmaninoff concerti

Rachmaninov: The Complete Piano Concertos

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Chopin: Piano Works [Nocturnes - Waltzes - Ballades - Scherzi]
Chopin: Piano Works [Etudes - Impromptus - Sonatas - Concertos - Mazurkas - Polonaise - Berceuse]
Grieg, Chopin & Saint Saens Piano Concertos / Previn, Rubinstein, London Symphony Orchestra

ASIN: B000009CMR
Release Date: 1998-07-14

Tracks:

The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1 : Vivace - Moderato - Vivace
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1 : Andante
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 1 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 1 : Allegro vivace
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18 : Moderato - Pio - Allegro - Maestoso. Alla marcia - Moderato
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18 : Adagio sostenuto
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18 : Allegro scherzando - Moderato - Presto - Allegro scherzando - Alla breve - Presto - Maestoso - Risoluto

Tracks:

The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30 : Allegro ma non tanto
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30 : Intermezzo: Adagio - attacca:
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30 : 3. Finale: Alla breve
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 30 : Allegro vivace
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 30 : Largo - attacca subito:
The Four Concertos For Piano & Orchestra: Concerto No. 4 In G Minor, Op. 30 : Allegro vivace

Customer Reviews:

Get this for the Lesser Known Rachmaninov Concertos.......2007-02-12

Many of the other reviewers praise this set for the performances of 2nd and 3rd concertos -- Rachmaninov's most well known contributions to the piano concerto literature -- but I agree with those who cherish this set for the performances of the lesser known concertos.

Vasary makes a very interesting comment in the liner notes that is worth repeating. He notes that Rachmaninov's own recordings of these works suggest a reticence reflected in the way he pushed through the virtuouso passages and made many cuts to shorten the pieces. He believes that Rachmaninov played this way out of the same impulse that prompts parents to speak modestly about the accomplishments of a precocious child. Vasary argues convincingly that we need to resist letting Rachmaninov the pianist interfere with our experience of Rachmaninov the composer. However, he adds it is also important not to over-indulge in emotionality because these works can become syrupy and sentimental.

I am impressed by Vasary's approach and persuaded by his interpretation about Rachmaninov's playing. So I flung myself into this collection looking to be brought into a new level of appreciation of these pieces. The first and fourth concertos benefit the most from this collection. Vasary's performances now rank among my favorite of these two works. The second and third concertos are beautifully played but they do not displace my current favorites. I agree that they would be an excellent introduction to the pieces for someone not yet familiar with them.

It is unfortunate that the collection does not include the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini to provide the complete works for piano and orchestra. Still, I strongly recommend this collection to any interested listener.

Crystal Clear Rachmaninov.......2006-12-28

I first heard Tamás Vásáry's recorded rendition of the Chopin Piano Concerto as a piano student of 14 (about 40 years ago) and have never failed to appreciate the craft of this Hungarian virtuoso and the efforts made by DG to promote his career as a recording artist. His handling of intricate passages is crystal clear and almost magical in its cadences. The slight, somewhat scholarly-looking Vásáry has never achieved the lionized status of some other virtuosos, but he surpasses most in his meticulous craftsmanship and sense of lyricism, especially in the most rapid-fire, intricate passages. When I discovered this set, I purchased several copies and shared them with my discerning musical friends. For them, discovering Vasary via Rachmaninov was a highlight of their holiday season. These recordings, ably engineered with customary DG aplomb, merit inclusion in any collector's "basic library."

Bravo! Vasary.......2004-05-13

Less rubato,but more dialogue between piano and orchestra.Incredible balance between both.

Tempo is much too slow!.......2003-08-27

This is one of my biggest complaints about classical music interpretations. Most of the music of Brahms has fallen prey to this problem as well (Emil Gilels performance of Brahms two piano concertos on DG's Original series for example).
Rachmaninov himself played his concertos at a much brisker pace. While I realise that there is always room for interpretation of any given piece, these versions are just too slow, especially after hearing other versions that fall more in line with Rachmaninov's versions.
Similar slow renditions to these georgeous works are: Ashkenazy / Previn, E. Kissin, and others. Can these concertos be *too* quick. Absolutely! Earl Wild's traversals are good example.
As far as I'm concerned, some of the best versions will be found elsewhere. For a very moving 2nd, check out Van Cliburn's reading on RCA Living Stereo series with the oddly coupled Beethoven's 5th piano concerto. Byron Janis' rendition of Rachmaninov's 1st and 3rd concertos on RCA's Living Stereo are also among the best for those works, even though you can hear the somewhat faded sound quality of the original Master tapes. Also see Janis' renditions of the 2nd and 3rd concertos on Mercury Living Presence with Antal Dorati conducting.
Ultimately, it is a matter of preference. I just prefer my Rachmaninov to be played at a quicker tempo.

Vásáry's Rachmaninoff concerti.......2001-04-20

Tamas Vasary is better known for his fantastic, pulsating Chopin, but he has also put down readings of the Rachmaninoff concertos that are utterly unique. Both he and conductor Ahronovitch clearly operate on the principle that you should be able to hear everything. While Vasary is clearly the soloist when it's his turn, Ahronovitch shows his appreciation for Rachmaninoff's orchestrational skill by bringing out melodic fragments that are too often covered by, for example, a thundering pianist.

More high marks for the sheer beauty. The sound is lovely, coated in sun, atmospheric. The Third Concerto has not a winter storm, as many recordings do, but instead the swirl of autumn leaves. The Second is less successful, sounding rather ponderous and mechanical, but the First is a structural tour de force, and the Fourth is the most pleasing I have heard it.

The major downside of the relaxation exhibited in these readings is that it comes at the expense of forward motion. The Third concerto takes 44 minutes total, and the first movement is nearly 18 minutes thanks in part to Vasary's use of the longer, alternate cadenza that Rachmaninoff himself never used. He is not, however, as slow as Ashkenazy, and the tempi certainly still fall within the realm of reason. The fresh perspective on this battered, overused music is well worth the wait.

Average customer rating:

RUN - not walk - to pick this up!!
From the sublime to the merely good.
Meh...
In spite of...
Great Piano Concerto Collection

Favourite Piano Concertos, Vol.1

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Favourite Piano Concertos, Vol.2
Lalo, Saint-Saëns: Cello Concertos
Brahms, Tchaikovsky: Violin Concertos [Hybrid SACD]
Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 1
Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 2

ASIN: B0000069CV
Release Date: 1998-03-17

Tracks:

Concerto No. 21 In C, KV 467 (Elvira Madigan): 1. Allegro
Concerto No. 21 In C, KV 467 (Elvira Madigan): Andante
Concerto No. 21 In C, KV 467 (Elvira Madigan): Allegro vivace assai
Concerto No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Maestoso
Concerto No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Larghetto
Concerto No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Allegro vivace
Concerto No. 1 In E Flat, S. 124: Allegro maestoso - Liszt
Concerto No. 1 In E Flat, S. 124: Quasi adagio - Liszt
Concerto No. 1 In E Flat, S. 124: Allegretto vivace - Allegro animato
Concerto No. 1 In E Flat, S. 124: Allegro marziale animato - Liszt

Tracks:

Concerto No. 5 in E flat, Op. 73 < >: Allegro
Concerto No. 5 in E flat, Op. 73 < >: Adagio un poco mosso
Concerto No. 5 in E flat, Op. 73 < >: Rondo. Allegro
Concerto symphonique No. 4, Op. 102: Scherzo
Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Moderato
Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Adagio sostenuto
Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Allegro scherzando

Customer Reviews:

RUN - not walk - to pick this up!!.......2006-10-30

I purchased this CD set on eBay for less than $2 some time ago. Reviews here on Amazon are usually written by people who buy the CD from Amazon, but this set has brought me so much pleasure that I am obliged to - nay, MUST - write a review here to spread the word. :)

I have been a classical aficionado for the last 6 years or so, and have to date accumulated a collection of >150 classical CDs. Artistic merit aside, I am picky about recorded quality; most of my listening is done through headphones (AKG k501), so poor sound quality in a CD is a big no-no for me.

I'll get sound quality out of the way first then - the SQ on this set varies from good to excellent. Sometimes the miking may come across as a little too warm (Rachmaninov) or a wee bit hollow sounding (Chopin), but there is nothing major to complain about here. There is a spot of easily noticed distortion in the first 10 seconds of the Emperor (more on that later).

I originally purchased this set for just one performance in particular - Clara Haskil's Chopin #2. This particular performance has been out of print for some time and was last available as part of an exorbitantly priced set (Clara Haskil: Legacy) that is now impossible to find.

In a nutshell, Haskil's performance alone is worth the full price of the entire set. The playing in the 2nd movement is absolutely magical - Haskil interprets Chopin with a delicacy and refinement that is difficult to put into words. Her playing brings to mind something my old piano teacher once told me - "Anyone can play Chopin, but few can play Chopin well". The way the solo melodic line is strung together at ~41 seconds into the 2nd movement will send shivers down your spine. Beauty too rich for use / for earth too dear, indeed.

But wait - there's more!

Imagine my surprise when another of the performances in this set turned out to be a 'sleeper hit': Brendel's Beethoven #5 ("Emperor"). I quickly grew to prefer Brendel's Emperor over my 'reference' recording - Pollini with Abbado (part of a very expensive DG 3CD set!). Brendel plays with more emotion and warmth - his Emperor comes off as truly majestic when compared to Abbado, who comes off as a little more magisterial and cold. There is a spot of piano clatter about 10 seconds into the first movement, but it is nothing major and certainly does not detract from the beautiful playing that follows.

Unfortunately Brendel's Elvira Madigan comes across as faaaaar tooooo slooooowwwww (for my taste). The playing is mannered, and there is none of the wiry elegance that should (in my opinion) characterise interpretations of music written during the Classical period. I much prefer my Pires with Abbado on DG for this concerto.

Janis's Rachmaninov #2 is worth a mention as well. Tape hiss on this recording is noticeable on headphones, but not overly prominent. There are few options for the Rach 2nd nowadays - Ashkenazy's warhorse is the usual (and nearly unanimous) recommendation.

Byron Janis was (in?)famous due to his being one of Vladimir Horowitz's two 'officially' recognised pupils, yet I find little Horowitz in this interpretation. There is none of the bravado and bold impulsiveness that characterised Horowitz's earlier work, no awkward mannerisms that characterised his middle work and none of the introspectiveness and coolness that characterised his late work.

What you will get instead is a well-measured and 'polite' Rach #2 with rather melancholy overtones, I find. Certainly a viable alternative to the Ashkenazy mentioned earlier, but a choice subject to personal taste. I prefer my own copy on Naxos by Jando.

I am not familiar with the Litolff and the Liszt, so I shall reserve comment on their respective readings. They are both well recorded though - warm and expansive.

From the sublime to the merely good........2006-04-27

This collection is an absolute steal. Three of the concerto recordings are unsurpassed. The Haskil Chopin is legendary, Richter's Liszt is colossal and Janis's Rachmaninoff is absolutely formidable. Brendel's recordings of Mozart and Beethoven are on a lesser level of achievement, but never less than good.

It should be noted that the Liszt and Rachmaninoff are Mercury Living Presence recordings, and if you've never heard a recording with only 3 well-placed mics, they do sound different from the usual 25-plus microphone recordings we are usually blessed (cursed) with.

At this price, one of the absolute CD bargains of all time.

Meh..........2006-03-28

This collection serves as a descent introduction to some great piano concertos, but the performances are not the best and the recording quality of most of them leaves much to be desired for me. I learned my lesson with regards to the 'best of' classical collections. Personally I'd rather have gotten great recordings of great performances of great classical pieces for a little more money.

In spite of..........2005-06-21

The problem with a heterogeneous collection like this one is that you may like some of the concertos, but not all. I have never found any better recording of Chopin's 2nd concerto than the one with Haskil/Markevitch, so this alone is worth the price, hence my five stars - only for that one! Brendel on Mozart's 21st is also one of many nice accounts. The others are not good enough, if you ask me. Chopin's 2nd by Haskil/Markevitch carries the stars; it is pure magic!

Great Piano Concerto Collection.......2003-07-03

Back in the days before I became a serious collector of classical music, I had this title. What a wonderful introduction it was for me, and if all you are looking for is some first rate performances of some of the best loved Piano Concertos ever written, then this disc is for you. Of course, I no longer own this CD, but I still have all of the individual performances (save the Litolff by Dichter/Marriner) on more comprehensive collections -- the Mozart on the Philips Duo of the "Great Mozart Piano Concertos" featuring Brendel and Marriner, the Chopin on the now o.o.p. Clara Haskil Legacy Vol. 2, the Liszt on a recently reissued Philips 50 title, the Beethoven on the new 3CD Universal Trio collection, and the Rach 2 on good old Mercury Living Presence -- and they are still among my favorites. If you buy this set, just be prepared to upgrade like I did.

Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4; Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Average customer rating:

ALL IN ALL, UNBEATABLE!
Virtuoso playing in great classic performances ...
Don't let the age of these performances fool you!

Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4; Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Earl Wild Plays Liszt (The 1985 Sessions)
The Virtuosity of Earl Wild
Earl Wild's Legendary Rachmaninoff Song Transcriptions
Earl Wild at 88
Earl Wild: Virtuoso Piano Transcriptions

ASIN: B00009AQMJ
Release Date: 2003-06-24

Tracks:

I. Vivace
II. Andante
III. Allegro Vivace
I. Moderato
II. Adagio Sostenuto
III. Allegro Scherzando

Tracks:

I. Allegro
II. Intermezzo. Adagio -
III. Finale. Allegro
I. Allegro
II. Largo -
III. Allegro Vivace
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43

Customer Reviews:

ALL IN ALL, UNBEATABLE!.......2006-12-19

Let's face it. A case can be made for Janis/Reiner in the First Concerto. A case can be made for several in the Second Concerto, and if you can put up with the execrable sound, the Horowitz/Barbirolli remains at the summit of all the Third Concertos, and finally a case can be made for Michelangeli/Gracis for the Fourth Concerto, but NO ONE, absolutely NO ONE, has produced a complete set of such supreme pianistic splendor as Wild has here (despite a few cuts sanctioned by the composer).

If you love Rachmaninov, buy this now. CASE CLOSED.

Virtuoso playing in great classic performances ..........2006-03-12

I must warn the reader that I write this (and any other) review mainly for my own pleasure, and to (hopefully and to some reasonable extent clearly) convey to any other person my ideas about what I like or don't like about a recording (hoping to gain some sympathy, consequently ;-). I do not have any true musical knowledge whatsoever: I can't read music and I do not have any knowledge about any of the technical aspects of music as such. So necessarily, any and every review I lay down before you is simply the result of what I hear and feel are the characteristics and/or differences between certain recordings, and what I love about them ...
If I may be allowed to draw a comparison between different performances, I would like to compare these recordings with the ones by Howard Shelley (on Chandos). Elsewhere I have described those performances by Howard Shelley as finely crafted, whereby every note is - to my ear - given extra poignancy. The recordings of Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto's by Earl Wild are different. They are more bold performances in the 'romantic' (?) manner maybe, whereby the melodies are played with beautiful legato and are given extra sweep and grandure (helped by the orchestra), with astounding technical bravoura (I can't read music, but this should be obvious even to me?!).
Anyhow, I love these performances, as they are bold, sweeping, full-blooded, with such beautiful (what I would, for lack of a better word, like to call 'singing' or 'soaring') legato. My favorite would be Piano Concerto No. 4. Also, the Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini here receives - to my ears - a wonderfully noble performance, full of technical bravoura (also by the orchestra). (It is certainly one of my favorite pieces for piano and orchestra!)
Nobility of playing is also a defining characteristic everywhere in these recordings, I think, but as a result of this nobility (and maybe exultancy), there may have been a slight loss of lyricism and intimacy in the Second Concerto ... Anyhow, the recorded sound is very full and wide, so that one is able to revel in all of the orchestral and pianistic colors. These are heart-warmingly virtuosic, classic performances that - to the ears of this particular amateur listener - lift this music to a higher plain of excellence, and I - for what it is worth - would like to recommend them to you without reserve.

Don't let the age of these performances fool you!.......2003-12-28

This is a reissue of a reissue...these performances having been recorded originally in the 1960's for Reader's Digest. The performances are simply fabulous! Both conductor and soloist are magnificent in these full-blooded, exciting virtuoso performances. Unfortunately, the 3rd concerto is played with the same cuts Horowitz and Rachmaninoff himself used in their recordings (the earlier Horowitz ones; the one with Ormandy is complete). But don't let that stop you. Wild plays the absolute hell out of the 3rd concerto! And the rest of the performances are just as good. You can't go wrong with this set of all the concertos and the Paganini Rhapsody. Easily one of the best complete sets out there and one of the best 3rds ever recorded!

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Another Triumph for the White Box

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
Sergey Rachmaninov , Antoni Wit , Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra , National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland , and Alexander Anissimov
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Mendelssohn: The Complete Symphonies & String Symphonies
Mozart: The Complete Symphonies
Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies, Kullervo
Chopin: The Piano Works
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures

ASIN: B00005QISD
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

Caprice Bohemien - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Animato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Larghetto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Con Fuoco - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Largo: Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Molto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Lento - Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio Ma Non Troppo - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Melodie In E - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Polichinelle Op.3, No.4 - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Vivace
Andante
Allegro Vivace - Andante Ma Non Troppo - Tempo Primo
Allegro Vivace
Largo
Allegro Vivace
Introduction
Variation 1
Theme
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11
Variation 12
Variation 13
Variation 14
Variation 15
Variation 16
Variation 17
Variation 18
Variation 19
Variation 20
Variation 21
Variation 22
Variation 23
Variation 24

Tracks:

Moderato
Adagio Sostenuto
Allegro Scherzando
Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Intermezzo: Adagio
Finale: Alla Breve

Customer Reviews:

Another Triumph for the White Box.......2006-01-12

It is both a tremendous honor and a great surprise that I am the first to review this item. It is another triumph for Naxos, and their flagship series, "The White Box." Presented here are Rachmaninov's 4 complete Piano Concertos, 3 Symphonies (including the reconstructed and rarely heard 1st) and some standard concert favorites like the Caprice Bohemien, and the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. This compellation is the result of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, and more preeminently, the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Antoni Wit. And he does a fantastic job. (Wit's competency can also be seen in his work on Tchaikovsky's complete symphonies and piano concertos, also for Naxos' "White Box" series.) The pianist here is Bernd Glemser. His playing is both flawless and graceful, and with a composer like Rachmaninov, that effect is not easy to produce. Those chords don't exactly play themselves. As far as I'm concerned there is no legitimate reason for why he is not well known. (Another great Glemser performance is his recording of Schumann's 3 piano sonatas, also for Naxos, which I would highly recommend.)

A real surprise for me was the first symphony. The score was lost until 1945, and it was only ever performed once in Rachmaninov's lifetime. It is really a forgotten gem in every sense, and I would venture to say it is actually the best of the three symphonies although I'm sure others would vehemently disagree. I am also very pleased to say that the sound and recording quality, which can be something of a toss up with Naxos, is impeccable on all 5 discs.

If you are looking for a complete set of Rachmaninov's Piano Concertos, there is really no reason not to get this set. As for the symphonies, although there probably are better renditions out there, they are played very expertly on this set. In terms of musical quality, I never compromise, and what you would gain by buying the symphonies separately through a more expensive label would ultimately be very, VERY minute, and most likely financially unjustifiable.

And there you have it. This set is a winner through and through, and I recommend it highly.

Rachmaninov: The Piano Concertos; Paganini Rhapsody [Hybrid SACD]

Average customer rating:

Wow, Love the Music, Hate the Audience Applause

Rachmaninov: The Piano Concertos; Paganini Rhapsody [Hybrid SACD]

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Russian Violin Concertos [Hybrid SACD]
Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade; Stravinsky: Song of the Nightingale [Hybrid SACD]
Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake [Hybrid SACD]
Sibelius: The Symphonies [Hybrid SACD]
Bach: The Keyboard Concertos, Vol. 1 [Hybrid SACD]

ASIN: B00030NU9U
Release Date: 2004-12-14

Tracks:

I. Allegro Ma Non Tanto - Andrei Gavrilov
II. Intermezzo: Adagio - Andrei Gavrilov
III. Finale: Alla Breve - Andrei Gavrilov
Introduction (Allegro Vivace)/Variation 1 And Theme - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 2 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 3 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 4 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 5 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 6 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 7 (Meno Mosso, A Tempo Moderato) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 8 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 9 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 10 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 11 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 12 (Tempo Di Minuetto) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 13 (Allegro) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 14 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 15 (Piu Vivo, Scherzando) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 16 (Allegretto) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 17 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 18 (Andante Cantabile - A Tempo Vivace) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 19 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 20 (Un Poco Piu Vivo) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 21 (Un Poco Piu Vivo) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 22 (Un Poco Piu Vivo, Alla Breve) - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 23 - Andrei Gavrilov
Variation 24 (A Tempo Un Poco Meno Mosso) - Andrei Gavrilov
Etude-Tableau Op. 39 No. 3 In F Sharp Minor - Andrei Gavrilov
Etude-Tableau Op. 39 No. 5 In E Flat Minor - Andrei Gavrilov

Tracks:

I. Moderato - Philadelphia Orchestra
II. Adagio Sostenuto - Philadelphia Orchestra
III. Allegro Scherzando - Philadelphia Orchestra
Prelude Op. 23 No. 2 In B Flat Major - Philadelphia Orchestra
Prelude Op. 23 No. 1 In F Sharp Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Prelude Op. 23 No. 5 In G Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Prelude Op. 23 No. 6 In E Flat Major - Philadelphia Orchestra
Prelude Op. 23 No. 12 In G Sharp Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Elegie Op. 3 No. 1 In E Flat Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Moment Musical Op. 16 No. 3 In B Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Moment Musical Op. 16 No. 4 In E Minor - Philadelphia Orchestra
Moment Musical Op. 16 No. 5 In D Flat Major - Philadelphia Orchestra
Moment Musical Op. 16 No. 6 In C Major - Philadelphia Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

Wow, Love the Music, Hate the Audience Applause.......2004-12-19

Let's get right off the bat to the down side of this otherwise superb set of recordings: audience noise. Now thank goodness this audience is very quiet during the progress of these performances, recorded live in the Meyerson Center in Dallas, USA; but as the dying echoes of each final chord in each of the first four piano concertos washes back from the walls, a huge crash of applause falls upon the ears like a very cold, and hard, icy avalanche. Only the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini was recorded without an audience, and thus mercifully, the rhapsody is blessedly free of this dreadful end to some of the very best Rachmaninoff playing ever committed to discs.

Yes, the first time you play these discs (in very clear and wide-frequency super audio sound, by the way), the applause offers up that added live concert frisson of the Meyerson audience being electrified by performances which would deserve every minute of sustained and raucous applause that any audience anywhere might care to offer up in appreciation. After that first time around, however, you simply wish more and more and more, to exile that audience to any Siberia, any far and distant and life threatening tundra available, just so long as it's palm-smacking look-at-us-now cacophony is no longer shattering against the walls of your listening room like demolition for a new Walmart down the block. Super audio's sonic power and refinement, on offer in multiple surround channels, only makes these intrusive applause endings that much more noisome. If you turn up the system, as I did, to more fully immerse yourself in each of the passing fine nuances as well as the entirely apt forward sweep of these performances, you will only be more painfully and frustratingly punished at the end of each work.

So, we have a possible major, major, major problem in this set, thanks to this audience at the end, every end, every piano concerto, one through four.

Otherwise these performances stand as pillars of fresh, committed, and thoroughly rewarding music-making. The pianist Stephen Hough, of course, is no stranger to worthwhile musicianship. A while back he was awarded a MacArthur Foundation Prize, and this survey of the Rachmaninoff piano concertos only continues the genius that the prize is intended to support. The Dallas Symphony is led by Andrew Litton, their current music director. The orchestra members, the conductor, and the pianist are one with the sweep and enormous melody which the composer has written into these scores. Though he showcases piano writing, leaving few passages when the pianist in his concertos is entirely silent for long; Rachmaninoff writes many little duets ... so deft, so tricky to put together and still make musical sense, both close and large .... throughout each movement, where the keyboard is companioned by woodwinds, or strings or brass. Keeping the fabric balanced is not as easy as it may appear from the ease with which the Dallas orchestra departments play; and people need to highlight and fade as quickly as the music evolves and shifts, moving on. As a set this one goes to the prime shelf where current interests are held. The only other sets to rise this high musically so far are the composer's own ... beautifully remastered in the Naxos budget editions; and the deleted complete set by Vladimir Ashkenazy with Bernard Haitink leading the Philharmonia (London) and the Concertgebouw; and the Peter Rosl and Kurt Sanderling set with the outstanding Berlin Symphony.

Individually, other performances of single concertos also seem to belong on this most highly esteemed Rachmaninoff shelf. In the first concerto, Vardan Mamikonian gives a stunning performance, supported by the Frankfort Radio Orchestra led by David Stahl. The same disc includes an equally intense performance of the Liszt first piano concerto. In the second concerto, I have long cherished Russian pianist Yevgeny Kissin, with Valergy Gergiev leading the London Symphony on BMG. Their pacing is exemplary, and I think this disc of the second concerto is one of the best things Kissin has given us so far.

The third concerto has been recorded by so many very good players that it is more difficult to select the most musically outstanding single versions. In addition to the other complete sets mentioned, I would perhaps add a deleted BMG-RCA recording with Ashkenazy partnered by the Philadelphia Orchestra under Eugene Ormandy. Their unaminity of musical purpose lights fire in each and every bar, putting to shame the familiar saw that Ormandy could only make beautiful music that stayed on the surface of the many works he recorded over a long career. Ashkenazy has recorded lots of Rachmaninoff, too, in a long career; and this deleted disc of the third concerto is among the peaks in his great catalogue. Arkady Volodos is at least the equal of the old, famous Horowitz recording, and the super audio sound is very high quality.

No one who loves the fourth concerto will be willing to part with the famed Michelangeli recording, now available in a Great Performances EMI edition. In my opinion the sole equal of the Rhapsody would be the Pletnev one on Virgin EMI, with Libor Pesek leading the Philharmonia.

To finish the lot, I strongly recommend the ORIGINAL versions of the first and fourth concertos, with Ashkenazy leading the Helsinki Philharmonic, and Alexander Ghindin doing a smash-up, young man's reading of both concertos. After listening to the original versions, you may agree with me that the composer tightened up each work, at the cost of losing some very lovely music. Highly recommended, five stars for performance. Hate the audience reaction in all four concertos, just hate it, no stars. Only a act of sheer willful determination keeps their applause in the airtight container of historical interest, where surely their applause belongs.

Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos 1-4 /Rachmaninov, Ormandy, et

Average customer rating:

rachmaninov at best!
Grasp

Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos 1-4 /Rachmaninov, Ormandy, et

Manufacturer: Classica D'oro
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Horowitz Plays Rachmaninoff/Concerto for Piano in Dm; Sonata for Piano No2/Vladimir Horowitz, Pianist
Rachmaninov: The Symphonies
Infidel
The Queen

ASIN: B000059LWP
Release Date: 2001-03-06

Tracks:

Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.1: Vivace
Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.1: Andante
Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.1: Allegro Vivace
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: Intermezzo: Adagio
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: Finale: Alla Breve

Tracks:

Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: Moderato - Allegro
Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: Adagio Sostenuto
Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: Allegro Scherzando
Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Allegro Vivace
Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Largo
Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Allegro Vivace

Customer Reviews:

rachmaninov at best!.......2003-10-11

this is the best recording of rachmaninov piano concertos ever! who can play or interpret rachmaninov better than the composer himself?

Grasp.......2001-05-02

All four concerts with excellent quality of recording. Noise was the only one complains for previous editions of Rachmaninov original performance - not any more. Rare published concerts No. 1 with rest of 3 are excellent examples of how much more music performance means then just note generation. Take a look for various recording of the concerts with different conductors - similar parts are conducted with minutes in difference. Isn't also an evidence of how much a performer could bring (or lose) to initial composer idea?

Track Listings:

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

Thirty Minute Raven [Import]

BEETHOVEN: "Spring & Kreutzer" Gruenberg / Wilde

Ain't It Nice

Stampede [Import]

Calling All Cars

Back from Hell [Import]

Animals

Art of Willem Mengelberg Vol. 1

A Proper Introduction to Hank Williams: The Final Sessions

A Banda Tropicalista Do Duprat

Adore [Import]

All of This [Import]

80's Remixed

Fire-Water: The Spirit of Renaissance Spain

Freedom