Rachmaninov #3; Prokofiev #2
Yuja Wang; Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela; Gustavo Dudamel
Deutsche Grammophon B0019102-02
This CD is a wonderful pairing of two of the greatest piano concertos ever written and two young superstars, Yuja Wang and Gustavo Dudamel. The orchestra, a third superstar, is made up of young players mainly in their 20s. The combined energy of these artists explodes in these live recordings made in Caracas, Venezuela. Yuja Wang impresses with her intensity and spectacular technique. She performs the Rachmaninov with passion but her playing is also refined and polished. She listens to the orchestra and in Dudamel she has a most sympathetic accompanist. In fact, pianist, conductor and orchestra were so in tune together that some of the concerto even sounded like chamber music and many nuances were brought out that are not normally heard. Reactions to performances of this piece can be sentimental and we all have our favorites. However, Wang’s CD will certainly join my top ten list.
The Prokofiev Second Piano Concerto is a dark masterpiece in four movements. It is an extremely challenging work both for the pianist and the orchestra. Wang gives a thrilling performance. Her voicing of chords in quiet introspective moments achieves a bell-like sonority. Her virtuosic power never overwhelms but enhances the music and her astounding technique is used to shape and sculpt the music. Wang’s intensity and the fiery emotion of the orchestra is hard to resist. This CD is highly recommended, especially for pianists who long to play these two great masterpieces.
Concert Note: The Toronto Symphony Orchestra presents “The Year of the Horse: A Chinese New Year Celebration” hosted by Dashan, featuring Yuja Wang with a special appearance by Song Zuying Monday, February 3 at Roy Thomson Hall.
