It is every generation’s right to put on record their interpretation of the standard repertoire and Despax is a capable and sensitive pianist who certainly deserves to tackle Brahms’ massive First Concerto, at almost an hour one of the grandest and most taxing works in the genre…
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….