Product description
Hyperion s Record of the Month for August features Marc-Andre Hamelin and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra under Andrew Litton in a compelling account of Brahms s huge Piano Concerto No 2. This work blends the principles of symphony and concerto in a manner that invokes chamber music, while also representing the culmination of everything that Brahms had learned as a lifelong connoisseur of pianistic technique. Cast in four large movements, this concerto can be seen as a kind of pianistic autobiography, from the young virtuoso, through the D minor anguish of the scherzo and the self-communing chamber-like slow movement, to the Hungarian rhythms of the more ebullient song-and-dance finale. The Four Piano Pieces Op 119 written in the composer s final years three ravishingly inward and autumnal Intermezzi offset by a virile and heroic Rhapsodie complete this rounded portrait of the composer. Marc-Andre Hamelin s pianistic authority and, when required, thrilling virtuosity are underpinned by a deep understanding of this epic work. He is magnificently partnered by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Andrew Litton, and his intimate dialogue with the solo cello in the slow movement is a high-point of this richly fulfilling interpretation. Marc-Andre s musicianship is further revealed in his poignant and searching performance of the four late solo pieces. For lovers of this composer, and of great piano-playing, this is essential listening.
Amazon.com
In a star-filled constellation of piano virtuosos Hamelin shines brightly; it seems he can play virtually anything in the core repertory or on its fringes with consummate skill and artistry. That's certainly the case in this live Brahms' Second Concerto, a massive work demanding both virtuosity and poetic sensibility. Hamelin amply demonstrates the former, especially in the finger-busting first movement where he adopts the necessary grand manner while providing filigreed details in abundance. In the long slow movement, he maintains a seamless flow of legato pianism and makes it sound as spontaneous as if he were improvising at the keyboard. Andrew Litton and the Dallas Symphony are a big part of the recording's success too, responsive to the "Brahmsian" ensemble sound while the first-desk solos are done to perfection. The disc also features Hamelin in Brahms' Opus 119 solo pieces, three radiantly played lyric Intermezzos, and a muscular Rhapsody, all done with rhythmic life. Brahmsians will retain their affection for such giants as Arrau, Serkin, and Gilels, but Hamelin's CD belongs in their collections too. --Dan Davis
Open Web Player
