Customer Reviews

The Complete Chopin Nocturnes (2-CD's)

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Are these the best complete nocturnes ever recorded? Is it possible that these masterpieces in miniature could be played with even more poetry, artistry and passion than the revered recording by the late Artur Rubenstein?

THE ANSWER: Possibly, depending on your taste.
In a back to back listening, I find that although Earl Wild's awesome technique outshines Rubenstein in certain difficult runs and passages, Rubenstein on the whole has a slightly better feel for these pieces, although not in all cases. In a cold breakdown, I'd have to give Rubenstein a 60-40 advantage.

Still, Wild's supreme use of pedal, judicious use of rubato, and delicacy of phrasing catapults this recording into the pantheon of all-time greats, heads above Vasary, Moravec, and Ashkenazy (all notable, though lesser, recordings).

All in all, one of the 2 best (along with Rubenstein) complete nocturne recordings ever put to disk.

A must have for all Chopin lovers, nocturne lovers, and humans with a pulse and a credit card.

What is more lovely and soothing than a Chopin nocturne? Oh my, it's like a warm summer night with jasmine wafting by on a breeze, like a whisper of silk against your skin ....

Don't know anything technical about this stuff, but the artist and recording seems pretty darn good. I know I sure enjoy it! :)