This enormous box set is distinguished by the inclusion of the piano concertos in the recordings made in 1985 and ’87 by Collard, Previn and the RPO. It was then and remains the best overview of these fluent and engaging concertos, much more substantial than so many virtuoso vehicles of the time…
Camille Saint-Saëns observed quite early on that music just flowed out of him and this 34 CD set marking the centenary of his death proves the point, if for no other reason that while it is comprehensive in scope it still does not include everything – even with all the operas omitted…
When composers play or conduct they seldom get sentimental. They rely on the quality of the music to make the emotional points rather than trying to drag every breath of pathos out of the phrasing. Ades approaches Janacek with just that balance between affection and respect. These pieces, the best of the Moravian’s piano music, come across as beautifully articulated essays, serious reflections on some harrowing events that at the same time need no narrative to stand as introspective masterpieces. There is plenty of drama, no showmanship or virtuosity for its own sake….