Search - Brahms, Rubinstein :: Piano Concerto 2

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hjonkers | The Netherlands | 05/08/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Another reviewer rightfully remarked that Rubinstein's performance here isn't as thought-out as others are. Yet, he only benefits from that. Rubinstein's playing is of a tremendous spontaneity, in a way I hadn't heard before in the Brahms B flat concerto. There's never a lack of fire: for example, he plays the `marcato' sequences in the first movement with more panache than most others, and the last movement sounds like it runs on Spanish pepper. Even then, charm and grace are always present, both elements that are so characteristic of Rubinstein's playing in general. He plays the staccato notes after 3'38 in the first movement almost like dancing steps! Krips and the RCA Symphony are fine (but not outstanding) companions and they join Rubinstein in his wild ride. It's a very impressive performance that I definitely count among my favourites. The playing of the fillers is more aristocratic: less force and more poetry. But it works very well for me, especially in the Rhapsody which is one of the best examples of the `autumnal sadness' in many of Brahms' compositions. Rubinstein perfectly understands this atmosphere. Both Rubinstein and Brahms fans should definitely not miss this great disc."