Customer Reviews

Mozart: Piano Concertos, Vol. 2

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The second volume in the recent series of Mozart piano concertos signed by the eminent pianist Christian Zacharias along with his wonderful musicians from the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra offers a superb rendition of two famous works, namely the K 271 and K 413 respectively. Perhaps the most celebrated (and favourite of audiences) among Mozart's keyboard concertos, the E flat major one (nicknamed "Jeunehomme" or "Jenamy" after its dedicatee's name) can well be considered as a real breakthrough in the genre and in Mozart's output as well. For he develops here a completely new approach of the keyboard and its role in the dialogue with the orchestral ensemble, shaping a sparkling discourse for the soloist, bringing on stage seductive melodies and exquisite textures in a masterful and vivid mingle between piano and the orchestral ensemble.

Zacharias leads charmingly from the keyboard assuming - as in the pure Mozartian tradition - the double role of soloist and conductor. He takes the risk of finding his own way in dealing with these well-known masterpieces and fully succeeds. Zacharias is fond of getting amazing colours and following breathtaking pathless trajectories, unfolds unexpected turns of phrases and puts fresh accents, depicting a masterpiece in its full splendour. His lively finger-work appears as a natural embodiment of Mozart's brisk spirit, at the same time seemingly asserting a noble singing keyboard. The same impression emerges from the F major Concerto K 413, where Zacharias also shades a new light. He seems to tell us that classical vigour can be highlighted and shared only by continuous reassessment and rethinking of the truths once validated. Taking a fresh look at the masterpieces is the most natural way of valuating them.

All in all, one more wonderful Mozartian recording from Zacharias!

The second volume of Zacharias' Mozart cycle (vol. 3 is due for 2/08 release) is as fine as the first volume. Fine pianist, excellent orchestra, and beautiful recording. I think, if this series continues, it could set the standard for modern Mozart piano concertos.