Robert Schumann's works for piano and orchestra have rarely received such excellent and effervescent performances. The Piano Concerto is probably the composer's most popular work and in Gerhard Oppitz's hands, the music really comes to life in a manner which is rarely equalled. Tudor's digital recording is excellent indeed and there is just the right balance between piano and orchestra with the final Allegro vivace particularly exciting.
The other three works on disc are no less exciting and make up more than half of the playing time. First and foremost is the Concert Allegro in one movement which also finds Oppitz in fine form while next there is the Concert Piece which is also brilliantly played and executed by the pianist and the Bamberg Orchestra. Finally we have the Introduction and Allegro Appassionato Op. 92 which concludes with a most brilliant allegro movement.
Tudor provides detailed notes and pictures in a splendid booklet which adds further to the allure of this release. It is warmly recommended on all counts.
Copyright © 2012 by Gerald Fenech.