Piano Concertos

Description

It is Grieg's Concerto that brought Leif Ove Andsnes to prominence on record in 1990. The interpretation remains largely the same, except for the tempos, which are now more lively. Even though he has performed Grieg numerous times, Andsnes maintains a freshness and expressiveness that always seem spontaneous. This inspiring quality is more noticeable with the faster tempos of the new version, but the expressive flights remain just as broad. In this contrast, he is firmly supported by Jansons and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, whose playing is not only refined but also dramatic in exciting tuttis. Schumann's melodies for cello are beautifully warm, the textures of both works are admirably clear, and Andsnes fully meets Schumann's demands for espressivo and ritardando.