Vladimir Horowitz live at Carnegie Hall - Recital December 10, 1966: Haydn, Schumann, Chopin, Debussy, Liszt, Rachmaninoff & Poulenc - Vladimir Horowitz

Experience the legendary virtuosity of Vladimir Horowitz in this captivating live recording from his December 10, 1966 recital at Carnegie Hall. This album, released on January 1, 2013, under the RCA Red Seal label, showcases Horowitz's unparalleled mastery of the classical piano repertoire, spanning compositions by Haydn, Schumann, Chopin, Debussy, Liszt, Rachmaninoff, and Poulenc.

The album opens with the applause of an eager audience, setting the stage for a remarkable journey through some of the most celebrated works in classical music. Horowitz's interpretation of Haydn's Sonata in F Major for Piano, Hob. XVI: 23, is a testament to his technical brilliance and artistic sensitivity. The program continues with Schumann's Blumenstück in D-Flat Major, Op. 19, and Chopin's profound Sonata No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 35 "Funeral March," each piece performed with Horowitz's signature passion and precision.

The second half of the recital features Debussy's evocative Preludes from Book II, including "Bruyères," "Les fées sont d'exquises danseuses," and "La terrasse des audiences du clair de lune," as well as Liszt's virtuosic L'Isle joyeuse and the introspective Vallée d'Obermann from Années de pelerinage, Suisse. The album concludes with a selection of shorter pieces by Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Poulenc, showcasing Horowitz's versatility and musical depth.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 26 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Horowitz's artistry, captured in the intimate setting of Carnegie Hall. The 2013 remastered versions of several tracks ensure that the sound quality is as pristine as the performances themselves. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Vladimir Horowitz or a newcomer to his work, this live recording is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the genius of one of the greatest pianists of all time.

Vladimir Horowitz, born in 1903, was a titan of the piano world, renowned for his virtuoso technique and electrifying performances. Hailing from Russia, Horowitz's career spanned over six decades, during which he became an American citizen and left an indelible mark on the classical music scene. His interpretations of Romantic repertoire, particularly works by Rachmaninoff, Liszt, and Tchaikovsky, are legendary, showcasing his unparalleled timbre and interpretative depth. Horowitz's recordings, many of which were made in his later years, capture the essence of his genius and continue to inspire pianists today. Despite battling stage fright and depression, his live performances were events that left audiences spellbound. Horowitz's legacy endures, not just through his recordings, but also through the stories of his extraordinary concerts and his close association with iconic venues like Carnegie Hall. His impact on the world of classical piano is immeasurable, earning him a place among the greatest pianists of all time.