Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical piano with Lazar Berman's "The Complete Sony Recordings." This comprehensive collection, released on January 1, 1976, under the Sony Classical label, showcases Berman's virtuosity and deep connection with the piano. Spanning an impressive 4 hours and 41 minutes, the album is a testament to Berman's mastery of the classical repertoire, featuring iconic works by composers such as Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Ravel.
The album opens with Berman's powerful renditions of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 and Piano Concerto No. 1, followed by his captivating performances of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 23 "Appassionata" and Piano Sonata No. 18 "The Hunt." These pieces highlight Berman's technical prowess and emotional depth, drawing the audience into the heart of each composition.
In addition to Beethoven, Berman's interpretations of Chopin's Preludes and Études, Liszt's Toccata and Rhapsodie Espagnole, and Schubert's Gretchen am Spinnrade and Erlkönig demonstrate his versatility and ability to bring out the unique character of each piece. The inclusion of Ravel's "Danza ritual del fuego" from "El amor brujo" adds a touch of Spanish flair to the collection.
This album is not just a compilation of Lazar Berman's recordings; it is a celebration of his artistry and a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Berman's work or a newcomer to the world of classical piano, "The Complete Sony Recordings" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
(P) 1976 Sony Music Entertainment/(P) 1977 Sony Music Entertainment/(P) 1978 Sony Music Entertainment/(P) 1980 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30: I. Allegro ma non tantoSergei Rachmaninoff, Claudio Abbado, Lazar Berman, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30: II. Intermezzo. AdagioSergei Rachmaninoff, Claudio Abbado, Lazar Berman, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30: III. Finale. Alla breveSergei Rachmaninoff, Claudio Abbado, Lazar Berman, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15: I. MaestosoJohannes Brahms, Erich Leinsdorf, Lazar Berman, Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15: II. AdagioJohannes Brahms, Erich Leinsdorf, Lazar Berman, Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15: III. Rondo - Allegro non troppoJohannes Brahms, Erich Leinsdorf, Lazar Berman, Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": I. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": II. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": III. Allegro ma non troppo, PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31, No. 3 "The Hunt": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31, No. 3 "The Hunt": II. Scherzo - Allegretto vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31, No. 3 "The Hunt": III. Menuetto - Moderato e graziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman
Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-Flat Major, Op. 31, No. 3 "The Hunt": IV. Presto con fuocoLudwig van Beethoven, Lazar Berman