Customer Reviews

Santiago Rodriguez Performs Rachmaninov

5 star:		(3)
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I'm shocked to discover that as of yet there is no review for this disc, or as far as I know, any of Mr. Rodriguez's other recordings. Futhermore, the list of samples shows an incorrect program, one for a different CD. Such neglect and carelessness doesn't befit a musician of his ability. Out of respect and admiration for this artist, here are my two cents:

This disc is comprised of some of Rachmaninov's most beloved solo works--the opus 23 preludes--as well as the Variations on a theme of Corelli, Song without Words (1887), and Three Nocturnes (1887/88).

Mr. Rodriguez is a Cuban born American pianist who has won awards in several competitions, most notably the Silver Medal in the Cliburn competition of 1981.

This is Mr. Rodriguez's fourth recording (including the 3rd concerto) in a series which will reportedly culminate in a complete set of Rachmaninov's works for piano. This CD has received nothing but praise, being called the best complete set of Rachmaninov's Op. 23 available (surpassing those of Ashkenazy and Weissenberg, and being perhaps second only to Richter's incomplete set). Rodriguez has a natural knack for the music--his playing is muscular and rhythmic, temperamental or tender when the need arises, and always with a solid "bronze" tone reminiscent of a young Rubinstein (as opposed to the sometimes cluttered approach of Weissenberg or the dry articulation of Ashkenazy).

The other major work on the disc, the Corelli variations, is no less remarkable. Rodriguez plays with a nice sense of unity, the peaks and valleys equally well represented, making each variation fit with one another to form an organic landscape.

The only problem I have with this recording lies in the Nocturnes, in particular the third and final one. Apparently Rachmaninov never finished writing this piece and Mr. Rodriguez took it upon himself to improvise an ending, and his addition feels overly flashy and intrusive, breaking not only from the style of the piece but from any style reminiscent of Rachmaninov. Nevertheless this disc, as well as any of the others in the set, is a must for fans of Rachmaninov's piano music. You will be hard pressed to find better interpretations, especially considering the top-notch digital sound quality of this recent release.

This is the most exciting performance of this concerto that I have heard. Tempo, temperment, capturing the romantic passion is here and I must comment on the excellent accomplment from the conductor. If you are amoung those who find this concerto to be the best of Rackmaninoff's work, then this recording is a must have.

Santiago Rodriguez's performance is no less exciting, technically sound, or aesthetically sensitive than the very fine, legendary performances of Martha Agerich. The speed and ease with which each attack Rachmaninoff's most technically difficult concerto almost seems super human. The orchestral performance, as noted by other reviewers, is also excellent. Although the present performers may not have biggest reputations, the results are clearly first class. Wow!