By CB92996
17-Aug-2010

New & Exciting Interpretations  

Gershwin’s Concerto in F is one of my favorite pieces of all time. A pianist himself, Gershwin knew exactly how to write for his instrument. This piece is filled with excitement and surprises. There are ups and downs in tempo, phrasing, and dynamics. Ms. Jacoby is well-suited for this piece. She plays with brilliant articulation and phrasing. Her expression of the emotions of the piece comes through the other side of the recording! Particularly stunning is the third movement Allegro agitato--what excellence by the Russian National Orchestra and Mr. Liss! It moved with great energy and emphasis on all the previous melodies! It ends with the expansive orchestral and piano collaboration to the final chord! Exhilarating!

Bernstein used W. H. Auden’s The Age of Anxiety as the subject or his Second Symphony. Also a pianist, you can tell that the soloist’s personal perspective is heard throughout the piece. This piece follows four characters through their spiritual journey. I am not as familiar with this piece but found it very well executed. The entire work has themes of thoughtful meditation and restless uncertainty. It seems to depict the discovery of new and unsure ideas as the characters go on their life’s journey.
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By Mark Koldys
American Record Guide
01-Nov-2010

By James Manheim
Allmusic.com
01-Aug-2010