Search - Sergey Prokofiev, Piero Coppola, London Symphony Orchestra :: Prokofiev plays Prokofiev

A Fascinating Historical Document!

04/25/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording can proudly take its place beside the work of perhaps the most recorded of the composer-pianists, Sergei Rachmaninov. Prokofiev on this single, not-too-well-known disc comes to life as a formidable virtuoso pianist with a bold, satirical (and at times dangerous) sense of humor, and with simply red-hot musical ideas. This has me wondering why performances of such sweep and scope are so seldom heard. The big work on the disc, the 3rd Piano Concerto, was recorded in 1929 when the composer's pianistic command was in top form. The recorded sound, while old, is surprisingly clear considering, for example, some acoustic examples of Horowitz from about the same time. The sound of the orchestra and piano is superbly balanced and the microphones do not seem to get "overwhelmed" by sound. In addition, the warm acoustic ambience of the hall manages to shine through as well. The performances on this disc struck me as surprisingly clear in structure, with fresh tempos and startling accents. Such excitement cannot be missed. Prokofiev keeps an interesting pulse which dictates that the orchestra members keep strict meter, while he takes slight rubato where needed. The effect is marvelous. The recording, which should not be confused with a misleading portrait disc of piano roll recordings on Laserlight, includes great liner notes, and a photo of the composer on the cover. Numerous solo works recorded 1931 fill out the disc, showing a surprinsingly finished pianist with plenty of idiomatic command and panache. Try his witty character pieces "Visions Fugitives" Op.22 or his broodingly lyrical "Stories of the Old Grandmother." While at full-price, these recordings provide an essential insight into a most original personality and artist of the 20th century. Enjoy!"

How could this not be excellent?

k78 | USA | 12/27/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After hearing this, all other interpretations of these pieces (with the possible exception of Richter's) become nothing but mockeries. Of course, the age of these recordings (they were made in the early 1930's) is a negative factor, but one that is far outweighed by the fact that these are authentic, electric (in contrast to the horrible piano roll recordings now available on Laserlight) recordings. Note: The exact same recordings, with weird orthography and uneducational liner notes, can be purchased for less than $ on the Italian label Magic Talent. At any price, however, this should be a compulsory addition to a Prokofiev collection."

Wonderful

cev7224@iperbole.bologna.it | Bologna,Italy | 07/11/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It sounds like an old vynil but what matters? I'm not competent about classical music but I like Prokofiev most of all. Before I knew the Ashkenazy/Previn and Argerich/Abbado recordings of the 3rd Piano Concert and I loved both. Now I can't listen to them!,especially to the Ashkenazy. This Prokofiev/Coppola recording brought me back to a sort of virginity! It speaks simply and directly, more than ever. Usually my listening of 20th century classical music isn't effortless but in this case it is. I'm a child enchanted by the mystery of a fairy tale. And what a wonderful narrator! It is played faster than other recordings,essentially, without ornaments ,calmly but with strenght. It seems so easily played and it captures you so easily!
Mark Arnest makes available competent and detailed explanations about Prokofiev piano technique on this CD:. His art remains a mistery to me but this recording (including the Piano solo works) tells more about Prokofiev than everything you can read. Egocentric in life? I don't know and I don't care ,but so humble before Great Music. At each listening my admiration for the man raises and my gratefullness too. This CD is the favourite of my collection. There is another CD that contains the same recording of the 3rd coupled with the Prokofiev 5 symphony directed by koussevitzky. It' a Dutton release but it has been remastered and for me it wasn't a good idea. The noise has been massively reduced but the sound is not so voluptuous. So this Pearl realease is best choice."