F. Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos 1 & 2 (Thibaudet, Blomstedt)

Felix Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos 1 & 2 / Variations sérieuses / Rondo capriccioso (Jean-YvesThibaudet, Herbert Blomstedt)

[DECCA 468 600-2 / 2001]

Mendelssohn's two sparkling, scintillating piano concertos deserve wider acknowledgement of their quality, and Jean-Yves Thibaudet is just the pianist to take up their cause. These vivacious, capricious pieces suit this pianist's technique down to the ground: he is capable of glittering passage work, a dreamlike lightness and is easily the equal to Mendelssohn's myriad technical challenges. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra has a special historic relationship with Mendelssohn, indeed, in the 19th century he conducted the ensemble for more than a decade. Under Blomstedt, textures are clear and transparent and rhythms are consistently tight. There is obviously a close rapport between conductor and soloist, a meeting of kindred spirits, which shows these concertos in the best possible light. In addition, Decca's recording is crystal clear and perfectly focussed with just enough space around it.

It was an inspired idea to sandwich solo works in-between the concertos. The same qualities that distinguish Thibaudet's concertos shine through these pieces. He builds the Variations sérieuses to a resounding, thrilling close. The opening Andante section of the Rondo capriccioso is sung with the most beautiful, liquid legato. This disc will bring real and lasting pleasure. --Colin Clarke

My rip with full covers/booklet


Eac / flac (img + cue) / log.
Recovery : 3%.
Total rar size : 218 MB /3 parts.
Total playing-time : 57'45''.
Included : Full Covers, Full Booklet, CD all in 300 dpi.


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Happy listening!