Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Johannes Brahms' Piano Concertos No. 1 and No. 2, masterfully performed by the legendary Sir Clifford Curzon. This exquisite collection, released on Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording, brings together historic performances from 1953, 1957, and 1962, all meticulously remastered in 2021 to offer an unparalleled listening experience.
The album features two of Brahms' most celebrated works, showcasing the pianist's virtuosic technique and profound musicality. The Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15, is presented in two distinct interpretations: one with the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of George Szell and another with the Concertgebouworkest conducted by Eduard van Beinum. The Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83, is performed with the Wiener Philharmoniker, led by Hans Knappertsbusch.
Each concerto is a journey through Brahms' richly textured compositions, from the dramatic intensity of the first movements to the lyrical beauty of the adagios and the playful energy of the rondos. The album also includes a bonus track, the Intermezzo in E flat Major, Op. 117, No. 1, adding a delicate and introspective piece to the collection.
With a total duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Brahms' piano concertos, offering both seasoned classical enthusiasts and newcomers a chance to appreciate the depth and brilliance of these masterpieces. The combination of Curzon's masterful playing, the superb orchestras, and the renowned conductors creates a recording that stands as a testament to the enduring power of Brahms' music.
2021 Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording2021 Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - I. Maestoso, poco più moderato (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - II. Adagio (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - III. Rondo: Allegro non troppo, più animato, tempo I (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Intermezzo in E flat Major, Op. 117, No. 1 - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - I. Allegro non troppo (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - II. Allegro appassionato (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - III. Andante, più adagio (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - IV. Allegro grazioso, un poco più presto (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - I. Maestoso, poco più moderato (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - II. Adagio (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - III. Rondo: Allegro non troppo, più animato, tempo I (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
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