GRIEG Piano Concerto in A minor op.16

SCHUMANN: Piano Concerto in A minor op.54 (live recording)

 

Leif Ove Andsnes

Berliner Philharmoniker

Mariss Jansons

 

In this brand-new recording Leif Ove Andsnes returns to the concerto that holds a special place in his repertoire and in his heart. Sympathetically backed by the authoritative baton of Mariss Jansons and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Andsnes delivers an interpretation that has developed considerably from his earlier account on Virgin Classics. The Grieg concerto has long been a favourite of both artists and listeners, not to mention the attention brought to it by such celebrities as Dudley Moore and André Previn (the famous Morecambe and Wise sketch for example!). Leif Ove first heard the work at the age of 16. He fell in love with it and then played it so frequently that he decided eventually to leave it alone and didn’t perform it in public for the next eight years. His reputation as an interpreter of his countryman was enhanced still further when his recording of Lyric Pieces won a Award in 2001.

 

The Schumann is taken from live performances in Berlin in December 2002. “I thought the tension of a live recording might add something to the agitation in the music” says Andsnes. “I have to say Mariss was fantastic because he was so effective with the orchestra. The intensity of the Berlin Phil is incredible. What commitment! They were incredibly exciting sessions and, I think, rather successful.”

Gramophone

 

EMI 5575622