Amazon.com: Martha Argerich is one of our supreme pianists, and this disc shows her almost at her best. Every phrase is beautifully considered and executed, but there is still plenty of spontaneity in her playing. Alas for the flowers of youth. A couple of decades ago, Argerich played this music (on two separate Deutsche Grammophon recordings) with even more fervor and spontaneity, and the accompaniments were more incisive and more clearly recorded than these. As Chopin wrote these concertos so early in his career, one can't help thinking that Argerich's earlier performances are more appropriate to the music. Still, with playing of this caliber, one can't merely set it aside. As a mature reconsideration of these concertos, this disc is well worth hearing--after you already know the earlier versions. --Leslie Gerber
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - Disappointment
I usually like both Argerich and Dutoit, but EMI has not done either of them justice, and to me, Argerich sounds less involved than in other recordings. The real drawback, though, is the sound. Decca provided ... Read More
Rating: - Great Performances
The two piano concerti by Chopin have been staples of the concert hall for many years. However, this is only the second recordings of these concerti by Martha Argerich. Ms. Argerich summons up all of the poetry ... Read More
Rating: - Argerich's Finest Recording of Chopin's Piano Concertos
Martha Argerich's performances of both concerti are spellbinding, incredible displays of passion. Her technical skills at the keyboard are absolutely phenomenal too. Indeed, I doubt I have heard her play these Chopin ... Read More
Rating: - Too much for me. :)
Lithe, sparkling, transparent, impressionistic--this recording is an outpouring of incredible delicious sound and it all reaches me so sublimely. It is the one piece of music I feel insecure writing about because I am ... Read More
Rating: - Fire and ice
Argerich plays with all her customary passion and flying fingers. But what I dislike about this recording is the fact that Dutoit's realization of the orchestral parts is rather dull. If you want to hear the true glory ... Read More
- Disappointment
- Great Performances