Howard Shelley / Opera North Orchestra - Schumann/ Grieg/Saint-Saens: Piano Concertos Orchestral & Concertos Chandos

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a musically satifying performance of these three warhorses.

Pianist - December 2009 /January 2010

I think many listeners will agree with me that this is the most finely realised and ravishingly beautiful Schumann Concert to have come for a long time… Both performances are on a high level, distinguished by the singularity of intent possible with the conductor as soloist, but without doubt, it’s the Schumann Concerto that steals the show. On the basis of its virtues alone this recording must be very highly recommended.

International Record Review

The fine rapport between pianist and orchestra is captured expertly in the recorded balance.

International Piano

Here’s something that’s well worth pointing out: a modern version of Schumann’s Piano Concerto that actually sounds like Schumann. Howard Shelley’s performance is refreshingly free from empty showmanship or narcissistic ‘pianism’. It uncovers nervous volatility, refined tenderness and dreamy lateral thinking associated with great solo piano works without for a moment sounding contentious or didactic The Grieg and Saint-Saëns are full of lovely things, especially the slow movement of the Grieg - this music can touch without being the slightest bit sentimental or oversweet.

BBC Music Magazine

The fact that Howard Shelley directs these inspirational performances from the piano is nothing short of remarkable. In his hands, sparkling virtuosity and interpretative ease combine to form a perfect musical marriage. Rarely has the Schumann sounded so rhythmically exuberant, crowned by a finale of flair and forward momentum. So too the Grieg, which emerges fresh as a mountain stream as the melodies fall over themselves in an effort to be heard. Best of all is Saint-Saëns Concerto no 2, which receives its finest recording since Rubinstien’s classic made nearly half a century ago.

Classic FM Magazine

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