Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Johannes Brahms' Piano Concertos No. 1 and No. 2, masterfully performed by the legendary pianist Clifford Curzon. This meticulously remastered 2021 release from Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording captures the essence of Brahms' compositions with unparalleled clarity and depth.
The album features three distinct performances of Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15, each conducted by a different maestro: George Szell with the London Symphony Orchestra, Eduard van Beinum with the Concertgebouworkest, and Curzon himself directing from the keyboard. The Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83, is presented in a captivating rendition by Hans Knappertsbusch and the Wiener Philharmoniker. Additionally, the album includes a serene Intermezzo in E flat Major, Op. 117, No. 1, performed by Curzon.
Spanning over two and a half hours, this collection showcases the breadth and complexity of Brahms' piano concertos, highlighting Curzon's virtuosic technique and profound musical insight. The performances, recorded on a restored 1859 Blüthner piano, offer a unique blend of historical authenticity and modern sonic excellence. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Brahms' works, this album promises an enriching and rewarding listening experience.
2021 Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording2021 Alexandre Bak - Classical Music Reference Recording
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - I. Maestoso, poco più moderato (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - II. Adagio (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - III. Rondo: Allegro non troppo, più animato, tempo I (George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra) - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Intermezzo in E flat Major, Op. 117, No. 1 - Remastered 2021, Version 1962Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - I. Allegro non troppo (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - II. Allegro appassionato (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - III. Andante, più adagio (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 - IV. Allegro grazioso, un poco più presto (Hans Knappertsbusch, Wiener Philharmoniker) - Remastered 2021, Version 1957Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - I. Maestoso, poco più moderato (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - II. Adagio (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 - III. Rondo: Allegro non troppo, più animato, tempo I (Eduard van Beinum, Concertgebouworkest) - Remastered 2021, Version 1953Johannes Brahms, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Szell, London Symphony Orchestra