Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of Van Cliburn's masterful interpretations with "Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 3 - Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3." This 2005 release on the Living Stereo label captures the essence of two monumental works in the classical piano repertoire, showcasing Cliburn's unparalleled virtuosity and artistic depth.
The album features two iconic piano concertos: Sergei Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30, and Sergei Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 3 in C, Op. 26. Recorded with the Symphony of the Air under the baton of Kiril Kondrashin, the Rachmaninoff concerto is presented in its entirety, including the Allegro ma non tanto, Intermezzo - Adagio, and Finale - Alla breve movements. The Prokofiev concerto is equally compelling, with its Andante, Theme: Andantino - Five Variations, and Allegro ma non troppo sections.
Van Cliburn's rendition of Rachmaninoff's Third Concerto is particularly noteworthy, as it captures his historic 1958 Carnegie Hall performance, just days after his triumphant return from winning the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow. This recording, remastered for modern listeners, offers a vivid sense of the venue's ambience and the electrifying atmosphere of the live performance.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a testament to Cliburn's technical prowess and emotional resonance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a profound and enriching listening experience. Dive into the rich, romantic styles of Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, as interpreted by one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century.