Mendelssohn: Piano Works

Interpretation ****      Sound Quality ****    Repertoire Value ***      Booklet ***

“Lars Vogt gives the two Mendelssohn piano concertos a dramatic impact that gives the works a surprisingly somber aura.”

Disc of the Month

Interpretation ******      Sound ******     Repertoire ******

“… The album is filled out by the Capriccio brilliant, Op 22, and what can be mere froth in unimaginative hands is wonderfully characterful here … In the final a tempo, with its mad running dash of semiquavers, Vogt is impressively unfazed and dazzlingly understated. The recording is excellent too, with a vividness that brings these master musicians right into your sitting room.”

**** Excellent Album

“… what’s here is invigorating. Vogt and the OCP clearly have something to say with this music – and it’s well worth hearing.”

“… The album opens with a propulsive reading of the first concerto… Vogt is more than equal to every technical hurdle. The Orchestre Chambre de Paris … are at one with Vogt, establishing a playful yet conversational give and take between them… in the slow movements of both concertos, Vogt uncovers levels of emotional depth untapped in other performances… The recital finishes with an engaging reading of the “Capriccio Brillant” for solo piano… The music is all high spirits up to the end, Vogt and his players playing with playful good humor and tremendous verve. I look forward to hearing more from this team soon.”  

Pizzicato Supersonic

“… a joyful and thrilling performance that can only be warmly welcomed and recommended. The well-balanced orchestra, playing with a fresh sound, is an excellent partner for Vogt, sworn to his conducting and soloistic rhetoric. The Capriccio brilliant, however, leaves the most lasting impression. Lars Vogt plays it not only energetically, but with jubilant enthusiasm, and he transfers this enthusiasm to the musicians of the Paris Chamber Orchestra, who play with great spontaneity…”