Superlative quality of Tchaikovsky

A disc filled with enchanting performances from Volodos and the Berlin Phil in the piano works of Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky

Composer: Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov
Repertoire:  Piano Concerto No.1 (Tchaikovsky); piano works (Rachmaninov)
Artists: Arcadi Volodos (piano), Berlin Phil/Seiji Ozawa
Rating: 4/5
Genre: Instrumental/Orchestral
Label: Sony SK 93067

There’s no denying the remarkable caliber of Volodos’s pianism here. Virtuoso flurries, flying octaves, coruscating filigree, superhuman accuracy at speed, and a rounded tone make for an exhilarating listening experience. Ozawa sounds more engaging than he often is on disc, and the Berlin Phil delivers the goods. All I miss is the electrifying intensity of the finest versions. The Rachmaninov miniatures are no less satisfying.