Liszt. Beethoven - Piano Concertos Nos 1 & 2 (Liszt), Piano Sonatas Nos 10, 19 & 20 (Beethoven)

Sviatoslav Richter pf London Symphony Orchestra / Kyrill Kondrashin

Philips 464 710-2PM Buy now

(70’ · ADD)

Recorded 1961, 1963

These were recognised as classic performances virtually from their first appearance. They’re characterised not only by the intense expressiveness of Richter’s playing but also by very careful balances of orchestral texture which hitherto hadn’t been much apparent in recordings of these works. Throughout, the emphasis is on poetic insight, dramatic impact; these interpretations have in these and other regards exerted a considerable influence. Yet even if sensitive readings of Liszt’s concertos are now less rare, this in no way weakens the impression made by Richter’s and Kondrashin’s. In short, these are among the great Liszt recordings.