Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No.1; Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No.1; Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Classical | FLAC | LOG | Covers | Booklet | Rapidshare.com | 195 MB | 1987 | 52:12
Vladimir Ashkenazy; Bernard Haitink; Concertgebouw Orch; Philharmonia Orch
Classical | FLAC | LOG | Covers | Booklet | Rapidshare.com | 195 MB | 1987 | 52:12
Vladimir Ashkenazy; Bernard Haitink; Concertgebouw Orch; Philharmonia Orch
These are wonderful performances, among the best I've ever heard. The Concerto, in fact, is THE best I've heard. Tempos in the Concerto are fast yet comfortable, with a lot of flexibility. Ashkenazy brings out all the bravura, but also achieves much lyricism, which seems to elude most pianists. Haitink and the Concertgebouw accompany him beautifully. The Rhapsody goes very well, although I would not say that it is better than Entremont/Ormandy or Pennario/Fiedler, let alone the classic William Kapell/Fritz Reiner version. The only reason I have not given this CD 5 stars is the sound engineering. It is certainly clear enough, but is lacking in body. The sumptuousness one expects in Rachmaninoff's orchestrations is merely hinted at, an ailment all too familiar from early digital recordings. Nevertheless, the Concerto demands to be heard.David Saemann
Tracks:
1. Piano Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.1 - 1. Vivace
2. Piano Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.1 - 2. Andante
3. Piano Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.1 - 3. Allegro vivace - Andante ma non troppo - Tempo primo
4. Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op.43