Search - Chopin, Anievas, Ohlsson :: Piano Concertos 1 & 2 / Waltzes / Impromptus

A great first set to explore the poetry of Chopin

Alan Lekan | Boulder, CO | 02/19/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here's a nice little inexpensive find that I have greatly enjoyed. Both American Garrick Ohlsson and France's Agustin Anievas are respected (but less known) interpreters of Chopin. Ohlsson's Complete Chopin Recordings are superb (Arabesque) while Anievas exudes a clean, uncomplicated Chopin style. First the concertos ... Chopin's two piano concertos are among the most popular in the repertoire. Their sparkling piano writing, endless streams of melody and rich, graceful harmonies make them perennial favorites. Somewhat unique is the understated orchestration that takes a backseat to the prominent solo-piano writing. Most other concertos are an equal give-n-take between the soloist and full orchestra and are thus more "symphonic" in the end result (Mozart's concertos are like this). Personally, I really like such a low-key orchestra compliment and rank these among my favorite in the genre.



Ohlsson recorded these concertos at least twice, this one being remastered in the 80's to excellent effect. Particularly gogeous are the famous slow movements which Ohlsson plays most mesmerizingly. His piano comes across bright, bold and with beautiful nuances of timbre while the orchestra recorded with perfect balance and life-like sound. EMI did a great job on this one. If you are looking around, there are scores of superb recordings around - Rubinstein, Perahia and Argerich being among the top choices.



Equally inspiring and enjoyable are the lovely Waltzes performed by Agustin Anievas. Chopin's Waltzes are among the most universally well-loved music around and for a good reason - they are ever-so elegant, full of life and reveal a special, joyous aspect of this composer known as "the poet of the piano." Equally evocative are the more melancholy waltes in minor keys. Famous performances of Chopin's Waltzes include Dinu Lupatti and Artur Rubinstein among others. But, Anievas gets some strong cudos for his relaxed, effervescent readings here that sparkle with life and radiate elegant simplicity of interpretation. Last, the Impromptus are some of Chopin's more understated but easy-to-enjoy works that are rendered admirably here. So, togther, these Chopin pieces are some of the finest in his ouevre and these recordings honor the Chopin as he wrote the music without excessive indulgance. If you don't have many or any Chopin recordings, you will probably enjoy this low-cost set and get the bug for more of Chopin's music. Compositions - 5 stars; Performance - 5 stars; Sound - 4.5 stars."