Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15 Maurizio Pollini (piano) Conductor: Claudio Abbado Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra Recorded: April 1997, Vienna (Live Recording) This masterpiece, also one of Brahms' earliest major works, has the feel of a symphony with piano. The 1977 recording with Böhm and the Vienna Philharmonic was flawless, but some felt the performance was too perfect and stiff. In this recording, however, one can feel a solid dialogue between Pollini and Abbado, allowing for a more relaxed listening experience. Pollini, who debuted with ironclad technique, has gained suppleness and delicacy with age, perfectly embodying Brahms in his mature period. Although there is a later recording with Thielemann and the Staatskapelle Dresden, the exquisite interplay with his close friend Abbado is a highlight. This is one of the highest quality live recordings of our time. Pollini's piano sound is never metallic, but rather the sound of the piano itself, and his musicality, backed by his technique, is outstanding. The opening of the first movement is heavy and majestic, reminiscent of the prime of Karajan, as if he had risen from his grave to conduct, and the powerful sound of Abbado and the Berlin Philharmonic's orthodox German style is overwhelming. Pollini must have thought, "This is amazing!" and takes a breath before beginning to play softly and cautiously. However, you can see him gradually becoming more passionate, spurred on by the orchestra. The second movement features Pollini's characteristically sparkling piano, with such a soft touch! Abbado uses Karajan-esque techniques, such as the beautiful legato of the strings to highlight the oboe's cantabile, fully illuminating Pollini's lyricism and inner depth, allowing you to immerse yourself in sensual beauty. The third movement's joyful, festive excitement is as expected, and Pollini's performance is perfect. The dynamic, massive strikes of the left hand are incredible, the orchestra's weight is impeccable, and the roaring of the horns is superb. In the ending, the piano is swallowed by the orchestra due to the overwhelming fortissimo, but that is what creates the lingering impression of having heard the best concerto, and it is undoubtedly a great performance. Import [Out of Print] Disc Condition: No scratches 14 *Bulk purchase discounts available (comment in advance)* 2 items purchased → 150 yen off, 3 items purchased → 300 yen off 4 items purchased → 450 yen off, 10 or more items → 150 yen off all items