Rerurn to Romy the Cat's Site

yeah, Argerich and Abbado have a certain chemistry together ... I think they go way back, if I'm not mistaken they went to school together ... and I think Abbado did study the piano there as well.

Gergiev??? I enjoy his interpretations.  To me Russian music is not about joy and musicality (unless you specifically consider Tchaikovsky), but instead it tends to portray the bleak and tragic history of that nation and the iron will that was forged through it.  I find Gergiev's interpretations of Shostakovich 5th and 9th are very much in sync with that era.  The recent Prokofiev release is also quite good.  There is a release of Verdi's Requiem with him conducting.... which features Bocelli ... so that's a total write off unfortunately.  The best piece (by far) is his rendition of Sheherezade ... in typical Gergiev fashion ... grave, dynamic impact with iron-like control, yet musical and subtle with finesse when called for.  I think it is very hard to balance those elements and right now nobody does it better than Gergiev.  Just my personal opinion.

Any suggestions are always welcome.

Rerurn to Romy the Cat's Site