Etudes Tableaux

On this CD:

1. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 01 in F minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

2. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 02 in C major
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

3. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 03 in C minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

4. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 05 in D minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

5. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 06 in E flat minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

6. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 07 in E flat major
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

7. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 08 in G minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

8. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 33 No. 09 in C sharp minor
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

9. Etudes-Tableaux, for piano, Op. 39
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by John Lill

Tracks:

Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: III. Allegro scherzando
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: 18th Variation
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: III. Adagio
Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5
Prelude In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 32, No. 12
Prelude in C-sharp minor, Op. 3, No. 2
Cello Sonata In G Minor, Op. 19: II. Allegro scherzando
Etude-tableau In D Major, Op. 39, No. 9
Six Pieces, Op. 11: Scherzo
Six Pieces, Op. 11: Slava
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai

Customer Reviews:

Yes.......2003-04-03

This is a marvelous collection. There were a few pieces I wish that it would include, such as the rest of his Piano Concerto No.2, or perhaps The Rock, but the fact that the performances are generally great and the recording quality is near-perfect makes up for that.

I would recommend this to anyone who is just starting to become interested in the works of Sergei Rachmaninov.

A decent introduction to the music of Rachmaninoff.......2001-08-12

Sergi Rachmaninoff was the last of the great Romantic composers, especially since the Romantic period had ended for European artists when he was at his height. Although a composer and a conductor, Rachmaninoff was also a virtuoso pianist, which explains why his best compositions feature the piano, either in solo work or with an orchestra. His "Prelude in C-Sharp Minor," which he wrote when he was 20, made him famous throughout the world. This collection also includes several other preludes, "Vocalise," and the famous 18th Variation (Andnate cantible) from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. My only serious complaint about this collection as an introduction to Rachmaninoff is that it only has one movement from his Second Piano Concerto and I have other CDs that include the entire work, which I thing is a good idea.

Great Collection of "Hits".......2000-06-22

This is actually not a bad collection of Greatest Hits. Usually the problem with collections like these is that they have bad recordings and not very good performances but some of these ones are actually okay, and it features performances by Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax among others. In general these are the works of art you think of when you think of Rachmaninoff and so these pieces are a perfect representation of his style.

One of the best CD I own.......1999-12-30

This is one of the best I own. The music is so great, hard to explain...so moving, especially the first track. It reminds me of Russia a lot. I listen to it everyday while driving to work. I highly recommend it.

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

Average customer rating:

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

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

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bach & Beyond - Gabriela Montero
Gabriela Montero en Concert à Montréal
Bach & Beyond [United Kingdom]
The Carnegie Hall Concert
Martha Argerich Plays Chopin: The Legendary 1965 Recording

ASIN: B0009VK0LO
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3/ Solo Piano Works

Average customer rating:

Digital Rachmaninoff
Stunning performance, and excellent sound!!
Beautiful
One of the best recordings to date!
Quite Simply The Best Rach 3rd Out There Today

Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3/ Solo Piano Works
Arcadi Volodos , and James Levine
Manufacturer: Sony
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

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:

Piano Transcriptions / Arcadi Volodos
Arcadi Volodos Live at Carnegie Hall
Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1: Rachmaninoff: Solo Piano Works [Hybrid SACD]
Volodos Plays Liszt
Schubert: Solo Piano Works

ASIN: B00004YC2F
Release Date: 2000-09-26

Tracks:

Con No.3 in d, Op.30: I. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Con No.3 in d, Op.30: II. Intermezzo. Adagio
Con No.3 in d, Op.30: III. Finale. Alla Breve
Son, Op.10: Andante
Morceaux De Fant, Op.3 No.5: Ser in B flat
Morceaux De Salon, Op.10 No.6: Romance in f
13 Prlds, Op.32 No.6: Prld in f
Prld in d, Op. Post.
Etude-Tableaux in c#, Op.33 No.6

Amazon.com

Volodos is the real thing, a flamboyant virtuoso with a great sense of style, tonal variety, and the kind of dexterity that draws attention to itself without taking your mind off the music. Rachmaninoff's Third is perfect repertoire for him, and he delivers an astonishing performance that combines fluency with weight. For those who found Argerich's Rachmaninoff 3 too brilliant, this performance will be deeply satisfying, the best of its kind since Weissenberg-Pretre of three decades ago. The alert, purposeful playing of the Berlin Philharmonic under James Levine adds greatly to the total impression. The recording and performance invite such concentration that you'll be startled to hear applause at the end. The solo pieces, including a transcription by Volodos of a movement from the Cello Sonata, are also beautifully played. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Digital Rachmaninoff.......2006-01-28

Sergei Rachmaninoff's compositions are often lumped in with other Russian nationalist composers, like Rimsky-Korsakov who wanted to raise the state of Russian music by incorporating modes and folk-elements of their native land into the mainstream. With Rachmaninoff, you get the feeling his music is Russian, but without selling out; he avoided in most cases, overtly inserting folk-sounds, but instead, composed classical music which was greatly influenced by his environment and surroundings.

The opening of his Piano Concerto No. 3 in d minor, is a fine example of that. A simple unison melody for piano, with simple orchestral accompaniment seems delicate, classically balanced, and tuneful, but the integrity of the melancholy nature seems to listeners as Russian. The theme returns three times, each time as charming and fondly remembered as the first. A more positive secondary melody speaks of love and yearning, evoking Rachmaninoff's highly Romantic compositional style. After the second reprise is a passionate piano cadenza (Volodos choose the longer one), bringing the moods of both motives. The d minor opening movement has a feel of forward movement without being rushed, and the lush Romantic orchestration is colorful and dramatic. The second movement has a potpourri of emotions, including a few reoccurring important ideas. The opening pastoral string section continues the mood of the opening movement, but when the piano enters, it becomes a peaceful pastoral scene. In contrast, a great sweeping theme of passionate emotion, in an almost exotic mode, takes over from time to time, again, rooting the listener in a Russian composition. A brash conclusion links the second movement to the third with a whirlwind scalular passage for orchestra and piano. The final movement begins with a forceful idea, again in the minor, which modulates around creating an interesting kaleidoscope of colors, much like the opening. A whimsical scherzo, along with a reprise of the opening movement's "love" theme gives the final movement an emotional pastiche feel. The work ends in an upbeat key, with broad Romanticism and stunning virtuosic athleticism. The final movement is a work-out for both orchestra and pianist.

This recording features James Levine and the Berlin Philharmonic. Levine, the conductor of the Metropolitan Orchestra, has a natural timing for drama, and it aids this performance of a highly dramatic, Romantic work. The Berlin Philharmonic is full-bodied and accompanies well (the piano rarely takes a break); although, I feel the orchestra could be more present, especially in the opening movement and parts of the third, where the orchestra is sometimes obscured by the piano. Levine also keeps the music moving forward, never langoring in over-Romanticization, a plus for this performance (leaves the listener wanting more). The engineers know who the star of the concerto is; Arcadi Volodos gives an extroverted performance of the concerto and is placed forward in the recording. He is delicate and sensitive at need, but really shines in the virtuosic arena. Minus the slight balance issue, this is a stupendous performance, if not the finest, at 40 minutes.

An extra 20 minutes of Rachmaninoff's solo piano repertoire is added to the concerto. The etude tableaux in c-sharp minor, no. 6(9), preludes in d minor and f minor, romance in f minor, serenade in b-flat minor, and Volodos' transcription from a cello sonata is included. Showcasing sensitivity, as well as athletic virtuosity, the pieces fill out the CD nicely. Interpretively, this CD can stand with most, sonically, it outdoes most. If you are looking for just the 3rd concerto only, this is an easy recommendation of a digital recording. Many labels, however, put out combinations of concertos, which might appeal to a larger consumer base. This CD is an excellent performance, an easy buy.

Stunning performance, and excellent sound!!.......2005-07-05

Volodos is an aspiring star at the piano, and he has showed us his technical and musical abilities several times. This recording of Rach 3 is to be remember as one of the great! I am not saying it is the best, because that for me can change day by day. I have my top 3 and that is enough!
The performance is excellent both from pianist, orchestra and sound technicians! The sound is overwhelming on a good surround system!
The enterpretation is strong and majestic and has all the elements you demand plus somewhat more. The octaves on the end of the 3. mvmt could have been much faster. We know Arcadi by now, and is there something he has no problems handling it is octaves.
If you like Rach 3, this shoukd be in your shelf!

Beautiful .......2004-09-16

This is a beautiful performance of the Rachmaninoff Third, well thought out, finely crafted, lovingly realized. I had not heard the young Russian pianist Volodos before, and I put on this CD with some trepidation, thinking, "Oh boy, here goes another young firebrand virtuoso, trying to out-Horowitz Horowitz, out to razzle-dazzle us into submission with his virtuosity." But that's not what we get here at all. Volodos plays with admirable taste, restraint, and lyricism, with poetry and sensitivity, phrases beautifully and plays with handsome, singing tone (he never pounds or bangs). He has technique to burn and his fingers fly as fleetly as anyone's, but his virtuosity is everywhere at the service of the music (not the other way around, as was so often the case with Horowitz). (My only quibble, and it is a minor one, is that he sometimes uses more pedal than I would like.) His goal is to offer the most beautiful performance possible of the concerto, to perform the music to the music's utmost advantage, and not to show off his own big technique. He plays with remarkable maturity for so young a pianist (he was 27 when the recording was made). Clearly a young man to watch.

For their part Levine and the Berlin Philharmonic provide warm, finely gauged, fully sympathetic support--support really isn't the right word here, for a work that has been aptly described as a "piano symphony." The live performance (from the Berlin Philharmonie, June 1999) is captured in fine sound, with the balances well judged: the piano is not unduly prominent, but is well integrated into the fabric of the orchestra. You are unaware there is an audience until the well-deserved spontaneous ovation erupts at the end. A lovely performance. If it never achieves, for example, quite the heroic liftoff of the famous Cliburn/Kondrashin 1958 live performance in Carnegie Hall, it has compensating beauties of its own (including better sound). Those who view this concerto as a vehicle for fire-breathing virtuoso display are advised to look elsewhere.

The CD is filled out (total timing 61:02) with six short Rachmaninoff pieces, studio recordings (made in Berlin in Jan. 2000). These pieces are pleasant without being of any great substance. I found Volodos's own transcription of an andante movement from a cello/piano sonata the most attractive of the lot. Again, Volodos's singing tone and warmly affectionate playing emphasize lyricism more than fire (and again, he sometimes plays with more pedal than I like). Strongly recommended.

One of the best recordings to date!.......2004-01-19

I consider the Rach Third Piano Concerto to be my favorite romantic concerto. I have heard many recordings of this piece, including the Horowitz version with Philiadelphia Orch, and the video with Zubin Mehta. Volodos's command of the piece is Astonishing to say the least. I feel Volodos pulls off every facet needed to play this great piece. He has the virtoustic power of Horowitz and the needed sensitivity to bring out the concerto's darker and more expressive sides.
All in all a truely fantastic recording worthy of all praise.

Quite Simply The Best Rach 3rd Out There Today.......2003-12-15

I am frankly, flabbergasted as to the negative criticisms of this recording! It is simply, sonically AND artistically the best performance of this concerto on the market today. It's better than the Weissenberg/Pretre version. It's better than Argerich! Yes, it's even better than Horowitz himself! It's simply astonishing. I have over 50 recordings of this piece and this one surpasses them all. I have recently listened to every one of the recordings I have, and none even come close. The sound is fantastic. The playing sublime.

Volodos plays the entire work without any cuts for starters unlike the Horowitz, Janis, Wild, Watts and Rachmaninoff, himself, versions and connects the whole thing together structurally tight as a drum. Volodos plays the heavier cadenza in the first movement, and quite simply, gives the most stunning performance of it I've ever heard. The only person who comes close is Cliburn's legendary 1959 recording, but the sound isn't as good, obviously, and Cliburn doesn't have Volodos' sense of spine-tingling drama and excitement (though, I'd have to say Cliburn's rendition is not far behind).

Volodos' playing of the 2nd movement is beautiful beyond compare. He takes the 3rd movement at a breakneck speed and one can hear just about every note, unlike many performances (Argerich's for one) where half the notes on the piano aren't even audible. Argerich's performance, while fantastic, is simply not as well thought out, technically as perfect, nor as carefully prepared as Volodos'.

Levine and the Berlin Philharmonic are excellent and the sound quality is the best I've ever heard on a live recording. I would be interested to know how much touch-up work was done on it if any. The piano can be heard properly at all times unlike many newer Rach 3rds that try to "integrate" the orchestral and piano parts so it sounds like a symphony, which it is NOT. IT'S A PIANO CONCERTO and the piano needs to be heard almost all the time as the most prominent player; and this recording fills the bill most expertly.

Tracks:

Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 36: Allegro agitato
Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 36: Non Allegro
Sonata No. 2 In B-Flat Minor, Op. 36: L'istesso tempo; Allegro molto
Etude-Tableau In E-Flat Minor, Op. 39 No. 5
Prelude In D, Op. 23 No. 4
Prelude In G, Op. 32 No. 5
Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23 No. 5
Prelude In E-Flat, Op. 23 No. 6
Prelude In C Minor, Op. 23 No. 7
Prelude In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 32 No. 12
Prelude In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 3 No. 2

Customer Reviews:

Rachmaninoff in the Hands of a Master.......2007-07-13

Since the LP turntable bit the dust, I'd forgotten the power of the Rachmaninoff Sonata in Van Cliburn's hands. I don't think the piano is capable of producing what he brings out of it, but his playing defies me. The hugeness of this masterpiece could overpower lyricism and form, but in Van Cliburn's hands there is nothing lost. Listen to the individual and inter-woven melodies, the harmonic and rhythmic progressions, as well as the overall piece. I'm brought to tears over and over again by the emotions and power of this Sonata and cannot imagine anyone but Cliburn able to wrap their hands around it. But it's not just his huge hands and powerful playing. It's the subtleties of the construction that don't get lost in the playing. Intelligent and beautiful interpretation. The sonata alone would make it worthwhile to own this CD. Other compositions, all richly and/or lyrically played, is icing on the cake. If you love Rachmaninoff, you'll love Van Cliburn's playing of it. My one regret? The 2nd and 3rd Concertos are not part of this set.

A Wonderful Evening.......2007-06-08

The choices, the performances, the music are all excellent. If you think you might like Cliburn (at his best) and/or Rachmaninoff (at his best) this will be a great way to start.

this cd is a treasure not be missed.......2006-03-20

i am a big fan of rachmaninov and have a large collection of his solo piano works and this disc is the best of them all. avid reader is absolutely correct-there is no recording of the e-flat minor etude like this one. it still gives me goosebumps every time i hear it. don't miss this cd if you love rachmaninov!

One of the finest piano recitals on disc.......2005-01-23

I've had this recording since its original release on LP many years ago. But I retired my turntable years ago and hadn't heard this recital in perhaps 10 years. I happened across this CD today and was reminded all over again that this is perhaps the most satisfying piano recital disk I've ever heard.

Cliburn was pretty much amazing at anything he chose to perform, but his Rachmaninoff was always something special. A brief background on the recordings themselves. The Sonata No. 2 was recorded at a Moscow recital in the early 1960s by the Soviet Union's Meloydia. Because of this, the audio quality has the thin, somewhat tinny sound of most Soviet recordings of this era. It's by no means unlistenable, simply to the same standard as US and Western European audio engineering of the era. The remainder of the disk consists of studio recordings from the early 1970s and represent, if I'm not mistaken, Cliburn'a final studio recordings. The sonics on these are rich and full. Overall, the CD remastering sounds much better than I recall from the LP.

As for the performance - are are simply beyond reproach. On initial hearing, I'm simply astounded at the power and beauty of his tone at the piano, a quality that even the somewhat limited recording of the Sonata can't diminish. He shapes each piece loving, caressing a phrase here, accenting another phrase in a unique but ultimately convincing mannter.

With repeated hearings, new insights on the music emerge. Cliburn is always intent on keeping a primary melodic line in the forefront. But if you listen carefully, you will also notice that he never sacrifices the clarity of the inner voices. In short, he's really thought through his conception of each of these works and expresses to the listener. And he never got lazy, he always made sure every note was articulated as written.

If you're a lover of piano music, this disc has to be in your collection. You will listen to it again and again with repeated pleasure.

beautiful.......2004-06-28

I got this CD specifically for the Prelude in G minor. It's very easy to let this prelude get too fast and bangy, and listening to how Cliburn played it made me more aware of the musical possibilities and the beauty. Listening to him play it gave me the encouragement to keep on working at learning to play it well.

A Window in Time: Rachmaninoff Performs His Solo Piano Works

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninoff is in the house!
Wonderful!!!
Where Does This Take us to?
The dead come alive
Truly Magnificent!

A Window in Time: Rachmaninoff Performs His Solo Piano Works
Sergey Rachmaninov , Sergei Rachmaninoff , and Wayne Stahnke
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

A Window in Time
Rachmaninov Plays Rachmaninov--Ampico Recordings (1919-29)
Rachmaninoff plays Rachmaninoff
Rachmaninoff Plays Rachmaninoff
Rachmaninoff Plays Chopin

ASIN: B000009RCS
Release Date: 1998-08-25

Tracks:

Prelude In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 3, No. 2
Lilacs, Op. 21, No. 5
The Flight Of The Bumblebee
Elegie, Op. 3, No. 1
Barcarolle, Op. 10, No. 3
Liebesfreud
Liebesleid
Melodie, Op. 3, No. 3
Etude-Tableau In B Minor, Op. 39, No. 4
Wohin?
Polichinelle, Op. 3, No. 4
Polka De V.R.
Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5
Serenade, Op. 3, No. 5
Minuet
Hopak
Etude-Tableau In A Minor, Op. 39, No. 6
Humoresque Op. 10, No. 5
The Star-Spangled Banner

Amazon.com

This collection of Rachmaninoff's solo piano performances relies on a mix of old and new technologies. Between 1919 and 1929, Rachmaninoff cut these 19 performances to piano rolls, which would then be played back through reproducing pianos capable of accurately re-creating the original performances through pneumatic devices that animated the rolls with living nuances and shades--a facet that differentiated the classier reproduction keyboards from the more common "player pianos." This set updates the technology with electronic devices--transparently, though expertly, replacing the pneumatics. Played back on a Bösendorfer Reproducing Piano, this collection sounds astounding, full of Rachmaninoff's lickety-quick motion and his punching intensity when striking the keys. There are 18 Rachmaninoff selections--some of them collaborations--and one gem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," taken to new places in this 1919 reading. --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

Rachmaninoff is in the house!.......2007-02-08

Superb sound quality! This is not a remastered recording made back in the '50's. This is actually Rachmaninoff performing via a special, pressure-sensitive type player piano. It truly sounds like he was recorded live with our current technology. The accompanying booklet explains everything very clearly.

Rachmaninoff was not only an exceptional composer, he was also an exceptional (if that is a strong enough term) performer. This CD allows you to experience his performing abilities as though you were sitting with him today. Great CD for every collection, even if you only casually listen to classical music on a rare occasion.

Rachmaninoff Rocks!

Wonderful!!!.......2006-07-15

No, I'm not a kid. But I am quite the Rachmaninoff ethusiast;I own all his recordings, both acoustic/electric and piano roll. Before buying these discs (i.e. the two volumes of A Window In Time), I read the reviews here, and was a bit reluctant in purchasing them after having read the negative ones. They claim that "there is no music" in these cds, that the "performances" are uncharacteristic of Mr. Rachmaninoff. But after comparing these performances with those recorded centuries ago, they do indeed seem to be accurate. Though they were digitally transferred, the authenticity is still there. I actually wonder if the naysayers only bash this collection because of the fact that these rolls were converted in such a way, and because of this formed a harsh bias. The alternative to these recordings on Decca are nice sounding though the tempi are a bit off, as proven by the recordings of the master himself playing. This is especially evident in the G minor Prelude; the Decca version is simply too slow and simply unlike Rachmaninoff. The version here, however, sounds very much like his playing. Despite my praises, there are two flaws I find in AWIT.The first is the use of a Boesendorfer that at times sounds awkward,like in the ending of Elegy; personally I would have loved for these to have been somehow transferred onto a Steinway, and Rachmaninoff would agree with me, as he performed exclusively on Steinways. The second flaw is that, yes, that little bit of sponteneity found in the acoustic/electric recordings is missing, but of course neither anyone nor anything can reproduce Rachmaninoff's pianism in a flawless but Rachmaninoff himself. I strongly reccommend both volumes of "A Window in Time". Try not to let the negative reviewers sway you, decide for yourself.

Where Does This Take us to?.......2005-10-13

Wonderful music most brilliantly played, with no coughings or whatever. Many of them are celebrated pieces too. But I won't for a moment suggest any serious piano music lover to really compare it with Rachmaninov's RCA recordings even if you have the heavy hissings of the latter on the other side of the balance. You will probaly more fun if you could just concentrate on what this technology could achieve.

The dead come alive.......2005-01-14

This is the best reconstruction of historic playing you'll ever hear, in part because while Rachmaninoff is playing it's as if he were installed on a big Boesendorfer in your living room. Finally we hear why in his time R. was if anything a bigger name as performer than as composer. Wonderful music, with rich recorded sound, and the always-exquisite sound of the Boesendorfer.

Truly Magnificent!.......2004-07-19

I just got this CD and with some trepidations sat back and listened intently from start to finish. WOW!! I was hoping that the negative reviews about mechanical and robotic playing would not be too accurate. Well those reviews were utterly absurd, these are MAGNIFICENT recordings! To paraphrase the liner notes, we can thank our lucky stars that we live in a time that technology can bring us this close to the great Rachmaninoff! From some of the reviews one could think this is some sort of computer generated music, robotic and lifeless. Nothing could be further from the truth. The humanity, soul and beauty of the playing leaps out at you. We owe Mr. Stahnke a debt of gratitude for this labor of love. This is art restoration of a high order, not technological interference. To fault this incredible "remastering" of the orginal rolls is like faulting the new digital transfers of old analog tape. It is not "interfering" with original recordings, it is restoration. Purist debates and Bose versus Stein arguments are meaningless when hearing Rachmaninoff play with this level of clarity and beauty of sound. Just like digital transfer of classic films or "cleaning" of masterpiece paintings, this is technology being used to increase our experience of the original intent, not to alter it. I have ordered the second one as well and will purchase every single issue of old piano roll masters that is restored like this. Don't hesitate, these are truly magnificent recordings that will not disappoint. Five stars without reservation!

Rachmaninoff: Concerto No. 2; Etudes-Tableaux

Average customer rating:

Young pianists should avoid Rachmaninoff No. 2
mediocre C-minor
Powerful Rachmaninoff
Kissin & Rachmaninoff
Fantastic

Rachmaninoff: Concerto No. 2; Etudes-Tableaux

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | 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:

Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No.3, etc.
Chopin: 24 Preludes, Op. 28; Sonata for Piano No. 2, Op. 35; Polonaise, Op. 53
Evgeny Kissin Plays Brahms
Chopin: The Four Ballades, Berceuse, Barcarolle, Scherzo No. 4
Chopin: Volume 2 (Sonata No. 3/Mazurkas)

ASIN: B000003EUT
Release Date: 1993-08-10

Tracks:

Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Moderato; Allegro
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Adagio sostenuto
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Allegro scherzando
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 1 In C Minor
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 2 In A Minor
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 4 In B Minor
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 5 In E-Flat Minor
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 6 In A Minor
Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: No. 9 In D

Customer Reviews:

Young pianists should avoid Rachmaninoff No. 2.......2007-06-29

Even keyboard supermen, if at a tender age (like 16), should avoid some repertoire that require more depth and life experience.
A typical piece of such sort is Rachmaninoff's No. 2 Piano Concerto. Don't think that it is so well known that even jazz players improvise on it that a kid could bring the music out alright.
I am not a diehard fan of Kissin, or of any pianist.
Honestly, the showmanship of young Kissin is rather inapt for this piece, demonstrating his lack of technical control, plus the fact that he and Gergiev are scarcely in sync in this recording.
I regret that people do not have the guts to say this straight out (except the only honest reviewer of March 2006).

mediocre C-minor.......2006-03-27

To put this streight Kissin doesn't understand Rachmaninov's music at all. He makes mistakes high-school students at Moscow conservatoire are tought to avoid at a very early age. I don't mean that my understanding is inevitably right, tastes are different in the end.
However some pieces sound so bad, you can't help feeling sorry for the pianist. His rubatos lack elementary taste. His pedal is a disgrace and at times a disaster! In the end amazing second concerto sounds cheap and pitiful.
If you want to listen to a beautiful interpitation, get Richter's.

Powerful Rachmaninoff.......2005-09-24

Because Rachmaninoff's music mirrors the Russian culture, I have often noted that no one plays Rachmaninoff like a Russian. Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 and Etudes-Tableaux, played by the Russian Evgeny Kissin, is unparalleled in mastery, beauty, and power. The album begins with one of the most sensitive interpretations of Rachmaninoff's second piano concerto that I have heard (on par with Vladimir Ashkenazy's, a fellow Russian). Kissin understands the flow of the piece from beginning to end. As a result, he builds the tension by accentuating the rich chord progressions that fill the piece. He then resolves that tension with the precision of a story-teller and the sensitivity of a master artist. Though the music stretches the ability of even the greatest pianists, Kissin plays through the difficulty in order to paint a landscape of musical progression. He hears and invites his audience to hear the intricate sub-plots that recur all throughout the work. Perhaps Rachmaninoff's most famous composition is married with a true master artist.

The album ends with six powerful Etudes-Tableaux. Once again, Kissin hears and emphasizes both the predominant theme as well as the innumerable sub-themes, often overlooked by lesser musicians. My favorite is Etude-Tableau No. 5 in E-flat minor. This extremely difficult piece builds tension through increased dissonance until a lofty climax. That dissonance almost becomes unpleasant to the ears, creating an atmosphere of extreme melancholy. I imagine that tension mirroring the inner turmoil that an individual experiences through a difficult time of life. But when that tension and internal cacophony can get no greater and the person is at the point of breaking, grace comes! The beauty of the resolution is far more beautiful against such a dark backdrop. And any person who has been through difficulties can fully enter into the emotion of the music. And anybody who is currently experiencing pain and suffering can take hope, even from this music, that resolution will come.

Kissin & Rachmaninoff.......2005-03-14

If one asks what the most striking reality in this CD is, I would without a doubt show the recording date (1988) and the year (1971) Kissin was born in. This interpretation of Rachmaninoff's 2nd concerto is just "too much" for a young man at his 17s. Apart from the technical brilliancy, Kissin shows us that he feels the music in his soul. The Etudes-tableaux are unique in their own way, and Kissin's recordings are among the best. Notice the savagery in No. 1, the beauty in No. 2, and the melancholy in No. 5. Brilliant performances. Highly recommended.

Fantastic.......2004-08-10

Kissin has outdone himself here. The clarity of the solo piano passages are absolutely fantastic. This is pure Rachmaninoff. It's to bad that the booming force of the orchestra seems to sometimes drown out the piano in some places (e.g. climax of the 1st movement). Anyway this is not a recording to miss, I highly recommend it. One of the top recordings of the Rachmaninoff 2.

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances/ Vocalise/ Etudes-tableaux

Average customer rating:

Yum! A Rachmaninoff Encore
Good Supplemental CD
Thank You
A sound engineer's dream
Turn up the volume and hang on!

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances/ Vocalise/ Etudes-tableaux

Manufacturer: Reference Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Reveries
Copland: Fanfare; Symphony No3
Respighi: Belkis, Queen of Sheba
Exotic Dances from the Opera
Igor Stravinsky: The Firebird Suite/Nightingale/Rite of Spring

ASIN: B00005QD5Z
Release Date: 2001-10-02

Tracks:

Symphonic Dances: Non Allegro
Symphonic Dances: Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
Symphonic Dances: Lento Assai
Vocalise
Etudes-Tableaux: The Sea And The Seagulls
Etudes-Tableaux: The Fair
Etudes-Tableaux: Funeral March
Etudes-Tableaux: Little Red Riding Hood And The Wolf
Etudes-Tableaux: March

Amazon.com

Written in 1940, the Symphonic Dances represent Rachmaninov at the peak of his powers as an orchestral composer. Less lush than his earlier works, free of sentimentality, imaginatively orchestrated, and full of lively rhythms, the piece is red meat for a virtuoso orchestra. The Minnesotans rise to the challenge with superb ensemble and countless solo turns done to perfection. Oue's interpretation, flexible and pointed, lets the dance rhythms drive the three movements and consistently strikes the right mood; just listen to the frigid trumpets that open the second movement and the swirling winds that alternate with them. The Vocalise gets a lovely reading, followed by Respighi's arrangement of five Études-Tableaux that turn those virtuoso piano pieces into deliciously orchestrated tone poems. Kick the volume control up and you get state-of-the-art sonics--solid bass, overwhelming climaxes, and dynamics as wide as a Kansas sky. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Yum! A Rachmaninoff Encore.......2006-08-08

The Symphonic Dances aren't programmed as often as they should be in the concert hall, so they amount to an extra treat. Rachmaninoff, while writing with typical brilliance, avoided repeating himself and offering another "Symphony No. 2" by choosing daring orchestration, especially the breathtaking use of the alto sax as the solo instrument in the first dance and the piano as tuned percussion. The effect is dazzling. This is a top-notch recording and makes one wonder why Eiji Oue didn't hit the big time at one of America's major orchestras instead of returning to Japan. A beautiful program expertly recorded.

Good Supplemental CD.......2005-05-09

I'll start by saying I own every cd the Minnesota Orchestra has recorded in the past 10 years. I love them all, but some stand out more than others as a definitive recording of a specific work. While I enjoy this cd, a couple of small items keep the recording of Symphonic Dances by Ashkenazy and the Concertgebouw Orchestra as my top pick. First, I am unimpressed with the principal oboe in the Minnesota Orchestra version - particularly in the first movement. The tone is harsh and sounds uncontrolled, and the intonation isn't great in the oboe/clarinet exchange halfway through the first movement. I also prefer the saxophone solo much more in the Concertgebouw recording - in the MN version the solo sounds slightly under pitch the entire time, and the phrasing lacks direction. I think the first movement of the MN recording is too slow, and the strings don't sound as rich and full as the Concertgebouw, which is strange, as I have heard both orchestras live and have always preferred the MN Orchestra string section over most any orchestra out there. With these comments said, the recording quality of the MN cd is crystal clear and it is a very solid recording - any Rachmaninov/Symphonic Dances lover will find this a good companion cd to the Concertgebouw.

Thank You.......2003-02-13

*
I agree that the quality and clarity of this recording is as good as it gets.

The Rachmaninov music is a bit different from other romantic music I've listened to. Not "bad" different. No weird stuff
here. The music changes moods. From thunderous percussion to the announcements of the trumpets, to the glassy
strings, and softer woodwinds, everything gets wrapped up into a neat package. This music has energy, imagination,
thoughtfulness, quiet action, and beauty. All of the pieces on this CD are well worth it.

I thank the reviewers here. This is one of my favorite CD's.
*

A sound engineer's dream.......2002-07-10

Let's be clear from the beginning: if there is a better-sounding CD than this one, let's hear it. Even if you don't particularly care for Rachmaninoff, or conductor Eiji Oue, or the Minnesota Orchestra, you owe to yourself to experience their work - especially when captured by one of the finest recording companies around.

I'll state right away that the "Symphonic Dances," the composer's last orchestral piece, is my favorite Rachmaninoff work. The version I treasure is (still) with Vladimir Ashkenazy conducting the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra on an outstanding Decca recording from the early 1980's (now back in print, and at a budget price, too). Ashkenazy's crisp tempi and the orchestra's dark colors suit the piece perfectly, generating a huge amount of excitement.

But even this magnificent project is trumped by this CD from Reference Recordings, a small but superb label based in San Francisco. After just one hearing, I was shaking my head in disbelief and wanting to hear more examples of the company's work.

The "Symphonic Dances" is easily worth the entire disc, with powerful rhythms and glittering orchestrations that showcase what a great orchestra can do. The "Vocalise" is lovely, and the Respighi version of the "Etudes-Tableaux" is even more fascinating if you are familiar with Rachmaninoff's original for solo piano. Throughout the program, Eiji Oue and the Minnesota Orchestra do a terrific job; great artists make this music sound easy to play. Some of Oue's tempi are slightly slower than I prefer, but there is no denying the conductor's abilities, not to mention the orchestra's virtuosity.

But it is the amazingly vivid, present, crystal-clear sound here that will make you go "wow." Some of the percussion effects, particularly from the triangle and cymbals, are breathtaking in their realism. For anyone with a state-of-the-art music system, a recording like this would probably be near-essential, if only to show off to your friends. Highly recommended, and of course begs the question, "Why can't all recordings sound like this?"

Turn up the volume and hang on!.......2002-03-09

I don't at all care for "demonstration" recordings. Whether a recording sounds just like a train, thunder or even cannon shots (1821 Overture) means nothing to me. I'm after realism in music. This disc is clearly one of the best recordings of classical music ever. The performances are really great, but I'm talking quality of recorded sound here. Up until now I would have said that either the Shaham or Carmignola versions of The Four Seasons set the standard (with perhaps the latest Sony choral version of Night On A Bare Mountain thrown in for good measure), but this recording is unbelievable. I doubt whether those without a HDCD feature on their CD player will get the full benefit of it, though. I would say out of thousands of classical CDs that I have bought this one is the one I would want to have around when I show someone the speakers I'm trying to sell them just how good those speakers can sound. I agree completely with the in-house Amazon review of how lovely the music sounds, too.

Rachmaninov Plays Rachmaninov--Ampico Recordings (1919-29)

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov plays Estonia piano
Beautiful CD
Love at First Listen
The way it should be played...
One of the best.

Rachmaninov Plays Rachmaninov--Ampico Recordings (1919-29)

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Rachmaninoff plays Rachmaninoff
Rachmaninoff Plays Rachmaninoff
Rachmaninoff Plays Chopin
A Window in Time: Rachmaninoff Performs His Solo Piano Works
Horowitz Plays Rachmaninoff/Concerto for Piano in Dm; Sonata for Piano No2/Vladimir Horowitz, Pianist

ASIN: B0000041WS
Release Date: 1990-03-30

Tracks:

Cinq Morceaux de fantasie, op. 3: Elegie In E Flat Minor
Cinq Morceaux de fantasie, op. 3: Prelude In C Sharp Minor
Cinq Morceaux de fantasie, op. 3: Melodie In E Major
Cinq Morceaux de fantasie, op. 3: Polichinelle In F Sharp Minor
Cinq Morceaux de fantasie, op. 3: Serenade In B Flat Minor
Barcarolle In G Minor, Op. 10 No. 3
Humoresque in G Major, Op. 10 No. 5
Prde In G Minor, Op. 23 No. 5: Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23 No. 5
Etude-tableau In B Minor, Op. 39 No. 4
Etude-tableau In A Minor, Op. 39 No. 6
Lilacs, Op. 21 No. 5
Polka de V.R.
Hopak
Wohin?
The Flight of the Bumble Bee
The Star-Spangled Banner
Liebeslied
Liebesfreud

Customer Reviews:

Rachmaninov plays Estonia piano.......2007-05-17

This is one of two recordings featuring Rachmaninov's Ampico rolls recorded on a modern piano. This one features an Estonia concert grand circa 1976, and the other features a Bosendorfer. For pianists this is a unique opportunity to hear the same performance on two pianos. How much difference does the piano make? Does the Ampico roll really capture the soul of Rachmaninov's playing? You'll be able to decide for yourself, I would say the answer to both questions is yes. As an owner of a newer Estonia piano, and as someone who plays Rachmaninov on that piano, this recording was a fabulous find; for other pianists it might provide some insight into the love many of the great Russian pianists of the 20th century had for Estonia pianos.

Beautiful CD.......2004-11-10

I can't really weigh in on the "Is it Rachmaninov or is it Memorex?" controversy over piano rolls but I have to say that I enjoy this CD very much and find the music very beautiful. It's great to hear such virtuosity in such a clear, distinct manner. I also own the two Naxos historical recordings, and it's great to hear the "live" version of Rachmaninov, hiss and all, but it's also great to hear the "canned" version hiss-free.

Love at First Listen.......2002-01-20

No words can describe the feeling of hearing Rachmaninov play his own compositions. He was known for his piano performances as much as his writing. Even though the album is not the best quality sound or containing the best versions of his well known songs, I am relieved that he was able to be recorded in his time. The man may be gone, but his sound will live forever. The cuts in the musical score that he made, I see as Rachmaninov's own whim, his split-second decisions, or his doubts. What a wonder to see him as human... I think these recordings should be put in Earth's time capsule. Also, his rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" is fascinating. He lends his Russian soul to it that gives new meaning to the anthem.

The way it should be played..........2001-12-19

Many people forget that Rachmaninov was a great pianist as well as a great composer... this album will serve as a reminder. This recording was made from a unique piano-roll system which provides amazing insight into his technical ability and musicality. Especially stunning are "Flight of the Bumblebee" and his own transcription of Kreisler's "Liebesfreud". A must-have for lovers of great piano music.

One of the best........2000-11-21

I'm not sure if this album is technically good, but I gotta tell ya, I love it! Definantly a must have for anyone interested in Classical Piano. Let's face it, Rach can play! So much emotion is built up in most of these works, he plays them the way they are meant to be played, pure and delicious.

The only song on here It could have done without is 'The Star Spangled Banner'. Other then that, A great album!

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

I: Moderato
II: Adagio Sostenuto
III: Allegro Scherzando
Prelude, Op.23 No.2 B Flat Major
Prelude, Op.23 No.1 F Sharp Minor
Prelude, Op.32 No.5 G Minor
Prelude, Op.23 No.6, E Flat Major
Prelude, Op.32 No.12, G Sharp Minor
Elegie, Op.3 No.1, E Flat Minor
Moment Musical, Op.16 No.3, B Minor
Moment Musical Op.16 No.4, E Minor,
Moment Musical, Op.16 No.5, D Flat Major
Moment Musical, Op.16 No.6, C Major

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding performances by one of the great pianists........2006-11-25

Incredible technique and impressive conception is displayed in the performances of these works. Highly recommended.

Good choice for a sampler of Rachmaninov's best.......2005-06-03

This is the perfect CD for those that want to start listening to Rachmaninov, because it has good interpretations of the best compositions by the outstanding Russian. The concerto No. 3 is played in a proficient manner, and even though Gavrilov does not reach the quality performances of top notch pianists like Ashkenazy or Leif Ove Andsnes, he is enjoyable to listen to. The Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini, based on the 24 Caprices by the prodigious violinist, is very good, with the only problem of lacking emotion in a couple of movements. To top off disc 1, we get two of the nine Etudes-tableaux from Op. 39, which are little gems for solo piano and have a nice contrast between them, since while No. 3 is fast and light, No. 5 is more melodic and romantic.

But talking about romanticism, let's move on to one of the most romantic concertos in existence, the No. 2. Except for the beginning, in which Gavrilov plays the second note in each bell toll too softly for my taste, the interpretation is up to par to most of the performances I have encountered. Of course there are some that are better, like Rubinstein's, if you are looking for fidelity in interpretation, or Lang Lang's, if you are searching for a more creative approach. Finally, a selection of preludes, an elegie and moments musicaux completes a selection that will give satisfaction to those looking to discover the artistry of this composer.

This is a remastered recording (stereo / DDD) with excellent sound quality. So considering the vast selection, the good performance of Gavrilov and the Philadelphia Orchestra and the price, it is as good a deal as you can get. I would recommend not passing it up.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

70's Disco Generation [Import]

Classical Surroundings Vol. 8 (String Quartet 1)

Dances & Marches From the Hollywood Bowl

Groove Update

Elvis Rockabilly [Import]

De Un Modo O De Otro

Crown Collection

Cigarettes & Alcohol [CD-single]

Coisa Fina [Import]

Donizetti - Three Queens (Anna Bolena ~ Maria Stuarda ~ Roberto Devereux) [Box set]

Don't Be That Way

Coleccion 78 RPM: 1940-1942 [Import]

Common Ground Pt.1 [CD-single]

Revelation

Trumpet After Dark