Martha Argerich and
friends – Live from Lugano 2013
Martha Argerich, and a very long list of friends are back in
another release from Warner Classics, recorded at the Lugano Festival in 2013.
One of the most interesting features of this series is the inclusion of rare
repertoire; this issue is no exception and includes an intense performance of
Respighi’s violin sonata from 1917. Other highlights include the Shostakovich Cello
Sonata and a glittering performance of the ‘Carnival of the Animals’ (Note the
humourous, badly played scales in the ‘pianistes’). The pianist/arranger Carlo
Maria Griguoli has made several contributions to previous volumes, and this time he presents a terrific arrangement
of Offenbach ‘Gaite Parisienne’. When all is said and done, this is most
entertaining and thoroughly rewarding.
Highly recommended.
Argerich is joined by Renaud and Gautier Capucon, Gabriela Montero, Mischa Maisky, Lilya
Zilberstein amongst others, and although mostly chamber music recitals, the set
does include a performance of Beethoven’s first Piano Concerto with Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana under Hubert Soudant.
“With Martha at the keys, Beethoven’s First Piano
Concerto sparkles and winks, with friendly assistance from the Dutch conductor
Hubert Soudant and the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana... But as usual the
special treats come in the lighter items, when hair is let down and feet stomp.” (The
Times)
Jason Hatton (Bath CDs)
