Experience the masterful artistry of Shura Cherkassky in this captivating live recording of Rachmaninoff's Piano Concertos No. 2 and No. 3. Captured in the intimate setting of Gothenburg, Sweden, these performances showcase Cherkassky's profound musicality and technical brilliance. The album opens with the dramatic and impassioned Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18, recorded live on February 9, 1970. The concerto's three movements—Moderato, Adagio sostenuto, and Allegro scherzando—are rendered with exquisite sensitivity and virtuosity, highlighting Cherkassky's deep understanding of Rachmaninoff's emotional depth and lyrical beauty.
The second half of the album features the monumental Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30, recorded live on March 3, 1968. This concerto, known for its technical demands and profound expressiveness, is performed with a sense of grandeur and intimacy that only a master pianist like Cherkassky can achieve. The three movements—Allegro ma non tanto, Intermezzo-Adagio, and Finale-Alla breve—are executed with precision and passion, showcasing Cherkassky's ability to convey the full range of Rachmaninoff's emotional landscape.
This album, released on July 1, 2010, under the Cembal d'amour label, is a testament to Cherkassky's enduring legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, it offers a comprehensive and immersive experience of Rachmaninoff's concertos, performed by a true virtuoso. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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