Search - Ludwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Furtwängler, Philharmonia Orchestra of London :: References - Beethoven: Piano Concerto no 5, etc / Fischer

Good Emperor, great sonata

RaleighObserver | Eastern USA | 05/30/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Fischer made these recordings for EMI late in his life, in the early 1950's. The Emperor concluded his set of Beethoven's later piano concerti (he recorded #3 and #4 with the Philharmonia also), and for this concerto he is paired with Wilhelm Furtwangler. Interpretavely, this is a great combination. Both take a serious, spiritual approach to the music, and there is a seamlessness to this recording which only comes from two musicians who have such similar perspectives, such dedication to the music, and such mutual respect. The only problem relates to Fischer's well-documented technical lapses, and in this piece, which has so much bravura work and which requires such power from the pianist, Fischer sometimes sounds weak. That said, there is so much nobility and sincerity in this reading that I am willing to forgive those problems. The second movement is stunning, the transition to the third movement is mystical.



What is even better in my view, however, is EMI's inclusion of Fischer's astonishing recording of the opus 10 #3 piano sonata. I have treasured my LP version of this for years. I have heard no-one plumb the emotional depths of this piece like Fischer does. The phrasing is perfect, the dynamic shading subtle and convincing, and the interpretive approach integrated and compelling. And no-one has ever ended the second movement with such tender longing, with the notes melting away, and then started the third movement so hesitantly that it seems to grow out of the ending of the second. This is a magical recording and worth the price of the disc.



Very highly recommended."

Probably the best of the Emperor Concerto

Archaeologist | Los Angeles, CA | 04/29/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This EMI CD is a jewel of Beethoven's 5th concerto for piano and orchestra. Two giants, Furtwangler and Fischer, masterly conduct one of the greatest piano concertos ever composed. Edwin Fischer's performamces of Bach are better known, but his two legendary performances of Beethoven's Fifth Piano Concerto, and Brahms 2nd Piano Concerto with Furtwangler are remarkable. The quality is of the sound is very good which is usual with EMI. Highly recommended."