Customer Reviews

Chopin: Complete Edition, Vol. 6 - Preludes, Scherzos, Impromptus, Rondos

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I bought this CD several years ago because I heard good reviews of Martha Argerich's Preludes and wanted to get a recording of the Scherzos. Buying the whole set, plus the Impromptus and Rondos, for about 20 dollars was a great deal - and I wasn't disappointed. Argerich's interpretations of the preludes can be contraversial but I don't think anyone will argue that they are simply breathtaking. There are a few of the preludes that can just put me to sleep, and I don't think Argerich makes anything special out them (particularly the slow ones - notable exception the #15 "raindrop prelude") But the preludes with faster tempo markings are incredible. #8 in f-sharp minor is a simple, agitated melody amidst a raging sea of 32nd notes. Argerich rips through the #16 prelude in under a minute and every note is clearly heard - this one always takes my breath away. The final prelude (d minor) is brilliant - the runs are played so quickly and cleanly it seems superhuman. The final notes of this prelude make your heart stop. There are so many other masterpieces: #3, #10, #12, #13, #14, #20, etc. Some people may not always agree with her interpretations, but everyone must at least hear them at some point in their life as your are guaranteed never to hear anything like it again.
Pollini's interpretation of the Scherzos may be slightly less flashy, but still technically dead-on. Pollini seems to have more control than Argerich, but doesn't bore me in the least with his playing. His interpretations are excellent of these amazing compositions. These are also less contraversial than Argerich's. Although some people may say there are bordering on 'boring' I feel that Pollini shows excellent musicianship and keeps these pieces exciting.
Although the Impromptus weren't as great, there are still a good addition, and I was pleasantly surprised by the Rondos. These are also beautiful pieces coming from the beginning of Chopin's compositional career. This set provides you with almost 3 hours of excellent music for a great price. Don't hesitate to buy it!

This is one of the best available collections of Chopin 's masterpieces . Really self-recommending . What with Pollini in the Scherzi and above all , Argerich 's amazingly brilliant performance of the Preludes. A breathtaking interpretation , if ever there was one. A MUST buy.