Martha Argerich, a name synonymous with virtuosity and passion in the classical music world, delivers a captivating performance in her album "Shostakovich / Tchaikovsky: Piano Trios." Released on January 1, 1999, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album is a testament to Argerich's extraordinary talent and her deep connection with the repertoire.
The album features live recordings of two monumental works in the piano trio genre: Shostakovich's Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67, and Tchaikovsky's Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50. Spanning a total of 79 minutes, the album offers a rich and immersive experience, showcasing Argerich's technical brilliance and emotional depth.
Shostakovich's Piano Trio No. 2, composed in 1944, is a profound and introspective work that reflects the composer's personal struggles and the turbulent historical context of its creation. Argerich's interpretation is marked by a delicate balance of intensity and restraint, bringing out the work's haunting beauty and dramatic power.
Tchaikovsky's Piano Trio in A Minor, written in 1882, is a masterpiece of romantic expression. The second movement, a set of variations, is a particular highlight, showcasing Argerich's virtuosity and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. Her performance is both technically flawless and deeply moving, capturing the essence of Tchaikovsky's lyrical genius.
Throughout the album, Argerich's playing is characterized by a remarkable clarity of phrasing, a rich palette of tonal colors, and a profound understanding of the composers' intentions. Her collaborators, the renowned violinist and cellist, contribute equally to the success of these performances, creating a cohesive and compelling musical dialogue.
"Shostakovich / Tchaikovsky: Piano Trios" is not just a collection of live recordings but a celebration of the enduring power of classical music. Martha Argerich's extraordinary artistry shines through in every note, making this album a cherished addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67: I. Andante - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67: II. Allegro non troppo - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67: III. Largo - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67: IV. Allegretto - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: I. Pezzo elegiaco. Moderato assai – Allegro giusto - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: a. Theme. Andante con moto - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: b. Var. 1. L'istesso tempo - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: c. Var. 2. Più mosso - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: d. Var. 3. Allegro moderato - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: e. Var. 4. L'istesso tempo - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: f. Var. 5. L'istesso tempo - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: g. Var. 6. Tempo di valse - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: h. Var. 7. Allegro moderato - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: i. Var. 8. Fuga. Allegro moderato - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: j. Var. 9. Andante flebile, ma non tanto - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: k. Var. 10. Tempo di mazurka - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIa. Tema con Variazioni: l. Var. 11. Moderato - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIb. Variazione finale e coda: a. Allegro risoluto e con fuoco - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50: IIb. Variazione finale e coda: b. Coda. Lugubre. Andante con moto - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Mischa Maisky
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