Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 23 

Sviatoslav Richter (2021 Remastered, Leningrad 1958)

1 disc(s) - 3 track(s)
Total length: 00:33:44

Grandiose and radiating dramatic brilliance, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 is renowned for its sumptuous opening, a melody that irresistibly evokes the magnificence of Imperial Russia. For many music lovers, it stands—alongside the equally spectacular opening of Grieg’s Piano Concerto—as a symbol of Romantic music in its entirety. With the swirling theme of its introduction, Tchaikovsky launches nearly thirty minutes of Romantic piano music, during which the soloist, with sweeping, powerful gestures, renders melodies of irresistible charm, coaxing from the instrument its full, resplendent beauty.

Sviatoslav Richter and Evgeny Mravinsky imbue their interpretation with a grandeur and aloof majesty found nowhere else. The symbiosis between soloist and conductor is absolutely perfect. Richter’s playing—of infinite virtuosity, with a lapidary, anti-theatrical power—strikes with absolute precision in every attack and an imposing, bronze-like sonority. Mravinsky’s accompaniment, aristocratic and commanding, is equally devoid of sentimentality. One readily understands what Haitink meant when he recounted seeing Evgeny Mravinsky in Leningrad, standing before his orchestra like a Prussian general.

Enjoy your listening

1. Piano Concerto No. 1 In B-flat minor, Op. 23: I. Allegro Non Troppo E Molto Maestoso, Allegro Con Spirito (2021 Remastered, Leningrad 1958)
2. Piano Concerto No. 1 In B-flat minor, Op. 23: II. Andantino Semplice (2021 Remastered, Leningrad 1958)
3. Piano Concerto No. 1 In B-flat minor, Op. 23: III. Allegro Con Fuoco (2021 Remastered, Leningrad 1958)