Legendary Harasiewicz Delivers Again
Mike Simonsen | 06/16/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Adam Harasiewicz, greatest Polish interpreter of Chopin this century, winner of the 1955 International Chopin Competition over no less than Vladimir Askenazy and subsequently dedicating his life to the great composer, here again maintains his stellar reputation with a series of definitive and unforgettable performances. Thank heavens Philips is finally releasing these magincal recordings. His Polonaises are the epitome of "warlike", and his Waltzes defy the form, becoming nocturnes, preludes, at times almost ballades or scherzi. Harasiewicz's pianism is typically incredible, with his sonic range stunning (roaring basses, and sparkling trebles), his fleet scalar passages mind-bending, and his rhythm impeccable, whether rubato is implemented or not. His tone is thick, and his performances definately place this collection into the "legendary recordings of the Century" category, much like Arrau's '54 Etudes, or any of the Prelude recordings of Cortot. Fans of this CD will want to immediately pick up the spectacular and legendary Philips Duo set of the complete Preludes and Nocturnes, as well as the Philips collection of pieces "My Favorite Chopin". Adam Harasiewicz, renowned interpreter of Chopin, is again dazzling and profound at once in this amazing collection."
Not limp, but not banging either - let's say, "thoughtful."
Mike Simonsen | San Francisco, CA | 05/06/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The reviewer who described these performances as limp was off the mark. Stefan Ashkenase maybe, but not Harasiewicz.
If you prefer having Chopin's music aimed as an act of aggression towards the balcony, you will be happier with Rubinstein's CDs, and his recordings are miked more closely, too.
These performances of Harasiewicz are designed for long and pleasant acquaintance. They are neither limp nor bland. They are not obvious or thunderous, either. They are thoughtful and loving, and powerful when necessary, but only then.
How do you like YOUR Chopin?"
