QUITE SATISFYING
Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 12/12/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Chopin's two sets of Etudes, Op. 10 (1833) and Op. 25 (1837), have been known to set many pianists' teeth a-chatterin', and for good reason: they are fiendishly difficult to play and equally so to communicate easily, to render afresh. Not, apparently though, for Mr. Ohlsson, whose transcendental virtuosity enables him to subdue the nearly technically impossible and immerse himself in the sheer beauty, myriad moods, colors, textures and emotional utterances these twenty-four etudes have to offer.
So deep is Ohlsson's understanding of these studies that each literally takes on a life of its own, while, at the same time, becomes inseparable from the whole. So seemingly effortless is his technical command, so fruitful his passion, so revelatory his "voice," we become transfixed by a comforting trust in his interpretation of these works... and by our profound sense that his expressivity runs so deep within him that his musical simpatico enables us to feel completely secure--- wherever he wishes to take us. There is no bogus bravura here, no blatant showmanship, both of which are traits that would cripple these pieces.
Amidst etudes that sing, thunder, weep or misbehave, Ohlsson truly guides us, his pianism full of charismatic authenticity, balance and gossamer poetry. The ease with which Mr. Ohlsson obtains our rapt attention resides within the power of his own convictions regarding each and every one of these etudes. It is a wonderment. [Ah, Chopin, you genius, melancholy Pole!] The Trois Nouvelles Etudes of 1840, as well, are superb pieces, performed beautifully: hypnotic, wistful, nostalgic.
Consistent is the exemplary sound given this exemplary artist: rich, warm, detailed and intimate. The match couldn't be more perfect or enveloping. Excellent liner commentary, too, by Frank Cooper.
[Running time: 67:05]"
His technique is so secure, these 'studies' become music.
Melvyn M. Sobel | 12/19/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ohlsson plays these with such technical security, that he can and does shape them into individual jems. The big etudes are huge, and the softer one,(like the double thirds) weave in out beautiful dynamics and colors. They are spectacular performances."
Track Listings (27) - Disc #1