Rubinstein's 1960s Chopin grab-bag.
Hank Drake | Cleveland, OH United States | 07/17/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The contents of this CD come from Arthur Rubinstein's 1960s Chopin cycle.
Rubinstein recorded the Impromptus several times over the course of his long career--this is his only complete version in stereo. He plays the posthumously published Fantasie-Impromptu (which Chopin, ironically, wanted destroyed after his death) from a previously unknown manuscript, which differs in numerous details from more well known versions.
The Barcarolle was central to Rubinstein's repertoire for 70 years, and part of his first official recording in 1928. This, his last studio version, is suffused with autumnal eroticism. The Berceuse features some of Rubinstein's best pianissimo playing (after the mid-1960s, he consistently played too loudly, most likely due to failing hearing).
Rubinstein attempted to record Chopin's Etudes, Opp. 10 and 25, in the 1960s, but gave up after one studio session. He did leave us two versions of the Three "New" Etudes, which were written at the request of Ignaz Moscheles. This is the latter 1964 set, slightly less fleet fingered than the rarely heard 1958 early stereo version.
The Bolero and Tarantella are some of Chopin's less popular works, and Rubinstein only recorded them once. The Bolero is solidly played, but the Tarantella is lacking in the final degree of "bite" (pun intended) this crazed dance piece requires.
Rubinstein recorded the Andante Spianato and Grand Polonaise Brilliante four times officially (once with the optional orchestral accompaniment). This last version moves with stately grandeur, if not with the swagger of the pianist's 1950s mono recording.
These recordings sounded pretty good in the 1960s, and still do today. The CD cover reproduces the original LP cover, except in accordance with the pianist's wishes, his name is spelled "Arthur" rather than "Artur"."
