dparrish
100+ Head-Fier
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- Nov 27, 2001
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I haven't heard the 1951 Horowitz version, but the 1970s edition (forgot the exact year) was a live recording and as a performance is one of the most exilerating I've ever heard on record.
There is a reissue of this done by RCA in the last few years (I have a copy) that is remastered in 24/96. It is an improvement.
I also have the very recently released Volodos/Levine DSD/SACD version (Sony). It is a BEAUTIFUL recording and easily the most MUSICAL interpretation I've ever heard (haven't heard the Agerich, but I'm sure it must be excellent, as I've heard heard play other concerti). Yet, the approach taken by this duo would appear to be a bit too heady, based on Rachmaninoff's own testimony regarding the conception of the piece. If we are to take him at his word, then, Horowitz's emotionally-charged bravura would seem to be the more faithful to the composer's intentions.
I must say, having heard both, that if I had to pick one, it would be Horowitz's.
There is a reissue of this done by RCA in the last few years (I have a copy) that is remastered in 24/96. It is an improvement.
I also have the very recently released Volodos/Levine DSD/SACD version (Sony). It is a BEAUTIFUL recording and easily the most MUSICAL interpretation I've ever heard (haven't heard the Agerich, but I'm sure it must be excellent, as I've heard heard play other concerti). Yet, the approach taken by this duo would appear to be a bit too heady, based on Rachmaninoff's own testimony regarding the conception of the piece. If we are to take him at his word, then, Horowitz's emotionally-charged bravura would seem to be the more faithful to the composer's intentions.
I must say, having heard both, that if I had to pick one, it would be Horowitz's.