Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 - Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1

Immerse yourself in the masterful pianism of Shura Cherkassky with this captivating album, released on ICA Classics. This collection showcases Cherkassky's virtuosity and artistry, featuring two iconic piano concertos and a set of variations that demonstrate his extraordinary technical prowess and musical depth.

The album opens with Camille Saint-Saëns' Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22, a work known for its lyrical melodies and dramatic contrasts. Cherkassky's interpretation is both sensitive and powerful, bringing out the richness and complexity of the score. The concerto is followed by Franz Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124, a dazzling display of virtuosity that Cherkassky performs with breathtaking skill and precision. The concerto's three movements are filled with energy, passion, and technical brilliance, and Cherkassky's playing is nothing short of electrifying.

The album also includes Beethoven's Variations and Fugue in E-Flat Major, Op. 35, known as the "Eroica Variations." This set of variations is a testament to Cherkassky's ability to convey a wide range of emotions and moods, from the playful and lighthearted to the profound and introspective. The variations are followed by a fugue that is both complex and beautiful, showcasing Cherkassky's mastery of counterpoint and his ability to bring out the intricate details of the score.

In addition to these major works, the album also features several shorter pieces, including Saint-Saëns' "6 Humoresques de Concert, Op. 14: No. 1," a charming and playful piece that showcases Cherkassky's ability to convey a sense of humor and wit in his playing. The album concludes with a waltz by Chopin, a beautiful and melancholic piece that provides a fitting conclusion to this remarkable collection.

Recorded live in 1983 at the Royal Festival Hall, this album captures Cherkassky in his prime, performing with the BBC Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Jesús López-Cobos. The sound quality is excellent, and the performances are filled with energy, passion, and technical brilliance. Whether you are a fan of classical music or simply appreciate great piano playing, this album is sure to delight and inspire.