Search - Robert Schumann, Franz Liszt, Frederic Chopin :: Hélène Grimaud ~ Chopin · Schumann · Liszt

AN UNEXPECTED DELIGHT

08/05/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I didn't acquire this disc expecting much, as Grimaud always struck me (both in concert and on disc) as being a bit too gentle in touch for the likes of Liszt or Schumann. I was quite wrong in my guess, as Grimaud turns in one of the most refreshing, most convincing performances among recent recordings of these works. She brings clarity and dynamism to her reading, infusing the work (especially the Liszt and Chopin) with an unmistakable passion. Highly recommended."

Incredible Performances and Thrilling Piano Sound

James W. Phelan | Bloomfield, NJ United States | 01/28/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Like the first reviewer, I was stunned with the maturity and impact of the then eighteen year old Helene Grimaud in what I believe is her debut recording. Whether you are new to or experienced with the the Chopin G minor ballade, you are in for a thrill!!! This is highly articulate but powerful, passionate playing which belies the artist's youth. In addition, the engineering and miking of the recording render a near perfect piano sound of demonstration quality which I frequently use to audition new stereo equipment. There is a thrilling and visceral quality on this recording which when combined with the excellent musical selections and brilliant playing, make this an indispensable CD. The Liszt and Schumann are of the same quality but it is the Chopin which grabs you and won't let go. This is the first recording of the Ballade which satisfies me after hearing the Rubinstein for so many years...(not to say there may not be others I have not heard.) The brilliant Denon sonics make this my favorite. Buy this CD if you can still find it, its from 1987!"

Superb

James W. Phelan | 03/13/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"First of all, Grimaud was only 16(!) when she recorded this, not 18 as was stated elsewhere. Taking that into account, makes the playing heard on this disc all the more imrpessive. The denon sound is flawless, and you can hear every note played cleanly and without any fear: very stunning technique. My favorite is the Chopain balalde on this disc, played extraordinarly well by Grimaud: passionate and fiery. I;m not realy a fan of the schumann, so I can't say much for that. the lizt is really diabolical, and isn't my fabvorite music to listen to, but Grimaud's performance of it seems to be a force to reckon with. Remember: she was only 16 when she recorded this, but she plays like a master on this disc."