Mature Artistry by Late Richter
Scriabinmahler | UK | 02/22/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
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The editorial review by Leslie Gerber is missing point here, comparing Richter's 60s performance with this one. In his late years he was not interested in brilliant display of his virtuosity, even though he still possessed the ability to do so. From 90s on, his playing had become more and more inward-looking and self-effacing. That is evident in this performance of Beethoven concerto, which is filled with magical moments and rarified beauty.
Chopin Etudes are not so electrifying as his earlier recordings, but again listeners attention is drawn, not to technical brilliance, but to music itself. Ovation at the end of concerto and etudes shows how much audience appreciated the late master's mature artistry."