Customer Reviews

Shostakovich: Cello Concertos Nos. 1 & 2

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I heard this 1996 recording of these two concertos after having first heard the 1984 recording by Heinrich Schiff, with the composer's son, Maxim Shostakovich, conducting.

The main difference I immediately noticed in these two performances is that Schiff's is somewhat more restrained in the Allegretto and Allegro movements. This is most noticeable in the first movement (Allegretto) of Cello Concerto No. 1, where the sound of the cello is more sharply delineated and set off from the orchestra in the Rodin recording, and there is more of a feeling of tension, and urgency, in the interpretation. This impression may also be the result of differences in recording technology and sound engineering, as much as differences in performance style. The pizzicato sections sound more clear on this recording than on the earlier recording by Schiff. On the other hand, the percussion sounds more clear and powerful on the Schiff recording.

On the whole, the Schiff interpretation is a bit more restrained, and has a very smooth finish, which is not to say that Rodin's interpretation is by any means unpolished. Both CDs have a poetic lyricism, with a feeling of dark beauty and intimacy in the slow movements (especially the first, Largo movement of Concerto No. 2) that is quite beautiful. Rodin's performance conveys a bit more of a feeling of intensity than Schiff's in the fast movements. But, in the slow movements, the Rodin CD actually has much longer timings, with the second (Moderato) movement of Concerto No. 1 at 12:57, in comparison to 11:03 for Schiff. The greatest difference in timings is in the third (Finale: Allegretto) section of Concerto No. 2, with Rodin at 21:08 compared to 15:19 for Schiff. The quality of the sound on the Rodin CD, especially on the high notes, and most noticeably in the wind and horn sections is exceptionally sharp and crystal clear on the Rodin recording. Both CDs have an excellent balance between the soloist and orchestra.

I have listened to and greatly enjoyed both CDs several times, sometimes listening to one movement of the Rodin/Krimets CD and then immediately listening to the same movement by Schiff/Shostakovich, and comparing the differences between the two CDs. At this point, I still don't have a preference. Both performances are outstanding. I give both CDs my highest recommendation and, ideally, recommend getting both and enjoying the differences in the performances. Total Playing Time on Rodin/Krimets = 71:40. Total Playing Time on Schiff/Shostakovich = 61:16.

A technically perfect performance without seeming stilted; Rodin's interpretation is sensitive and true to the composer's intent. I prefer it to the Rostropovich version.

This is one of the best performances/recordings of the two 'cello concerti of Shostakovich - a joy (? - well, at least, wonderful melancholy) to which to listen. At this price, it is a steal.