Search - Frederic Chopin, Alfred Wallenstein, William Steinberg :: Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 17

Round 2 of Rubinstein & Chopin Concertos

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 09/18/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First, let me just say I am surprised that Hank Drake has not reviewed this title -- I will desperately try, but most likely fail, to provide a review as insightful as he would. Volume 17 of "The Rubinstein Collection" features the great pianist performing the two Chopin Piano Concertos. The accounts featured on this CD are each his second studio recording of the work. The E Minor Concerto (No. 1, Op. 11) with Alfred Wallenstein and the L.A. Philharmonic is from 1953, and the F Minor Concerto (No. 2, Op. 21) with William Steinberg and the NBC Symphony Orchestra is from 1946 -- both are in mono. While I own all of the Chopin Concerto recordings in "The Rubinstein Collection," I have reservations talking about the particular merits of each performance because I am far from an expert. I have found all of the Volumes thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening, and I do feel comfortable recommending Volume 44 instead of this title, Volume 17, largely due to the fact that the former is in stereo. However, if you are of the opinion that sound quality should always take a backseat to the quality of the performance, then you will thoroughly enjoy this disc."