Customer Reviews

Piano Concerti 1-5

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

Arthur Rubinstein's recording of the Beethoven Emperor Concerto with Josef Krips and the Symphony of the Air was the very first Beethoven piano concerto I ever heard, and for that reason alone I particularly cherish this CD set. But even without that childhood memory, I still think this is as fine a version of the Beethoven concertos as you will find on disc. Rubinstein was at his peak as a pianist here, and his masterful yet joyous command of this music should captivate you as much as it does me. Krips' accompaniment balances perfectly with Rubinstein's interpretations, especially when they romp through the concluding Rondo of the Emperor Concerto. Here's hoping RCA puts this set back into print!

This 1956 production is the greatest recording of Beethoven's Fifth Piano concerto I've heard; it would be boasting to list the number of other artist's versions I've owned, heard and seen in person in the last 55 years. The price would be modest for No. 5 alone, as it is now a collector's item. 1 through 4 are outstanding, but No. 5 is in a different galaxy.

It's impossible to express the quickening of affect that occurs upon hearing the opening E flat major chord by this ensemble. Every instrument plays with a simultaneity that demands your attention. Listen one time and you will become a believer. Before the resonation fades, you will recognize instantly what orchestra, conductor, and pianist are at work. This awareness will never leave you. The rest of the concerto lives up to the preface and has a inspiriting quality that is unique to this presentation.

(This is the only interpretation of No. Five I can recognize in a fraction of a second, upon hearing the opening chord.)