Rachmaninoff, Mussorgsky & Prokofiev: Piano Works

Garrick Ohlsson, a name synonymous with virtuosity and profound musical insight, presents a captivating collection of piano works by Rachmaninoff, Mussorgsky, and Prokofiev. Released on February 9, 2010, under the Bridge Records label, this album is a testament to Ohlsson's mastery of the classical piano repertoire.

The album opens with Rachmaninoff's "Variations on a Theme of Corelli, Op. 42," a piece that showcases the composer's lyrical genius and Ohlsson's technical brilliance. The variations, ranging from the delicate "Andante" to the fiery "Allegro vivace," offer a journey through a spectrum of emotions and moods.

Next, Ohlsson tackles Rachmaninoff's "Piano Sonata No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 14," a work that demands both physical stamina and emotional depth. The sonata's four movements, from the dramatic "Allegro ma non troppo" to the whimsical "Vivace," are rendered with precision and passion.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition," a suite that Ohlsson performs with a sense of narrative and visual imagery. The live recordings capture the spontaneity and energy of Ohlsson's performance, from the haunting "Gnomus" to the triumphant "The Great Gate of Kiev."

With a duration of just over an hour and nine minutes, this album is a feast for the ears, offering a rich and varied selection of piano works. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Garrick Ohlsson's interpretations are sure to leave a lasting impression.