Search - Frederic Chopin, Franz Liszt, Alan Gampel :: Chopin: Sonata No. 3, op. 58/Liszt: Piano Sonata in B minor

Gampel plays Chopin and Liszt B Minor Sonatas

Dr. William Teaford | Rancho Palos Verdes, California USA | 05/03/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am flabbergasted! Alan Gampel's new release of the famous B Minor Sonatas of Chopin and Liszt have left me breathless. I am a pianist and perform both works, unfortunately not like this. Up until now my favorite recording of the Liszt has been that of Horowitz and of the Chopin, William Kapell. Gampel's new recording leaves both of these far behind. In my humble opinion this will be considered the definitive version of these two pieces. His musicianship, phrasing, prodigious technique, subtleties, and mature mastery of the composers' ideas are unparalleled in my memory. In the Liszt, the characters in Goethe's "Faust" are dramatically clear. Gampel's octaves and passage work are to die for. In the Chopin, the warmth and elegance of the first movement, the fluid humor of the Scherzo, the singing lyric beauty of the Largo, and the building intensive energy of the Finale are especially noteworthy. Get this recording, and you will not want to listen to any other recorded interpretations of these works again. Dr. William Teaford"

Daniel B. and Leonard B. would approve

Theo Duncan | Coarsegold, CA USA | 05/05/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Alan Gampel, soon to be known just as "Alan G.", I suspect, was heard at the Chicago Symphony performing Leonard Bernstein's work to thunderous applause. His range, to include Leonard, Frederic and Franz is testimony to his ability. This newest of his recordings goes beyond anything he has done before. Bravo to this fine young piano artist who is making his mark in America after spending earlier years performing in Europe, including the American Embassy in Paris and command performances with head of state including the President of the USA. Roger Duncan"