Customer Reviews

A Chopin Collection - Lilian Kallir Plays Chopin Piano Works

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Among the eighty or so Chopin recordings in my possession, this one holds a special place. Kallir (noted as one of the world's greatest musicians) doesn't offer glib pyrotechnics, but something much less common: Breathtakingly beautiful phrasing, passion, great presence and, especially rare, a dancer's sense of rhythm and physicality. This CD carries an earthy, unprocessed sound-- close to that of a live concert in one's parlor.

Everyone with ears absolutely must hear the two Nocturnes (op 27). Listen to her rubato. I cannot even imagine these pieces more beautifully played. Her emotional rhythm, her temperature, is spot-on, compelling, actually unforgettable. The opening of the Gminor Ballade is absolutely right, and pianists hardly ever get this right. From that moment you're lost in it: She's telling a story and it is riveting.

Considering all the novelty-seeking pianists who rely on distortion to make their own "personal statement," it is a joy to hear playing that goes, simply, straight to the heart, with no filters or safety nets; like falling in love for the first time.

Highest Recommendation.