Customer Reviews

Brahms: Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25 (orchestrated by A. Schoenberg) / Variations & Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24 (orch. by E. Rubbra)

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I suppose one great experience, musically at least, we came away with from the Athens Olympics of 2004 was the very impressive televised concert of the Berlin Philharmonic with Sir Simon Rattle conducting the orchestrated version of the Brahms Quartet. I am sure anyone hearing this piece at the first time fell in love with it instantly.
I love the piano Quartet in any shape or form. Regardless of the poo-poohing of the Penguin Guide, Schoenberg greatly expanded the scope of this work, made it more exciting and dynamic listening experience. Just listen to the Third Movement, that heroic theme, wonderful as it is in the chamber form, but what a transformation when played on the winds and brass! The "Zingarese" last movement has very modern orchestration, so to speak, (xylophone, Trombone glissandi, cymbal crashes) but brings the roof down as it did in Athens.
This new Chandos recording with the London Symphony is the best available of this piece and Jarvi is in great form, taking a commanding, though somewhat conservative, view of the work.
The Handel variations are orchestrated from a solo piano work where, I think, it should have remained. Rubbra's orchestration is good and scholarly, but adds nothing to the work, whereas the piano version is an absolutely stunning virtuoso piece. Nevertheless it is good to hear it orchestrated just for curiosity.
Recorded sound is up to Chandos usual standard. Highly recommended. Best available, so stop looking further.